EVANGELICAL BIBLE COLLEGE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
COMMENTARY.
REVELATION
by
Dr Peter Moses and Dr John McEwan
[BOOK 97-3]
Revised July 2014
EVANGELICAL BIBLE COLLEGE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
This book is dedicated to the Glory of God with eternal thanks to the
Lord Jesus Christ who chose to reveal Himself to us in this way so
that as we see conditions heralding His return as King of Kings and
Lord of Lords we can have full confidence in our future and His
triumph. He is King and He is Lord of all, and we rejoice as we see
Him coming in power to rule this world.
If you feel fear at any point in your study please stop and pray, for
there is no need of fear for any believer, for his perfect love for us
casts out all servile fear. 1 John 5:18. Unbelievers may fear, for that
emotional response may drive them helpfully to their knees in
repentance, but for all who know the Lord as their Saviour this book
will reinforce his mighty plan of grace for mankind. It is not a book of
judgment alone, but one of grace and mercy, for every step along
the path leads to the salvation of multitudes through the terrible
times discussed. His perfect love never ceases towards all who
bow their knee to Him as their Saviour and Lord.
He is King of kings and Lord of lords. Halleluiah!
Dr Peter Moses
Dr John McEwan
Chairman (EBCWA)
Dean (EBCWA)
2 December Hanukah
2010
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WHO IS JESUS CHRIST?
Professor Simon Greenleaf was one of the most eminent lawyers of all time. His “Laws of Evidence” for many years were
accepted by all States in the United States as the standard methodology for evaluating cases. He was teaching law at a
university in the United States when one of his students asked Professor Greenleaf if he would apply his “Laws of
Evidence” to evaluate an historical figure. When Greenleaf agreed to the project he asked the student who was to be the
subject of the review. The student replied that the person to be examined would be Jesus Christ. Professor Greenleaf
agreed to undertake the examination of Jesus Christ and as a result, when he had finished the review, Simon Greenleaf
personally accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour.
Professor Greenleaf then sent an open letter to all jurists in the United States saying in part “I personally have
investigated one called Jesus Christ. I have found the evidence concerning him to be historically accurate. I have also
discovered that Jesus Christ is more than a human being, he is either God or nothing and having examined the evidence
it is impossible to conclude other than he is God. Having concluded that he is God I have accepted him as my personal
Saviour. I urge all members of the legal profession to use the “Laws of Evidence” to investigate the person of the Lord
Jesus Christ and if you find that he is wrong expose him as a faker but if not consider him as your Saviour and Lord”
HOW CAN I BE SAVED?
Salvation is available for all members of the human race.
Salvation is the most important undertaking in all of God's universe. The salvation of sinners is never on the basis of
God's merely passing over or closing His eyes to sin. God saves sinners on a completely righteous basis consistent with
the divine holiness of His character. This is called grace. It relies on God so man cannot work for salvation, neither can
he deserve it. We need to realise that the creation of this vast unmeasured universe was far less an undertaking than
the working out of God's plan to save sinners.
However the acceptance of God's salvation by the sinner is the most simple thing in all of life. One need not be rich, nor
wise, nor educated. Age is no barrier nor the colour of one's skin. The reception of the enormous benefits of God's
redemption is based upon the simplest of terms so that there is no one in all this wide universe who need be turned
away.
How do I become a Christian?
There is but one simple step divided into three parts. First of all I have to recognise that I am a sinner (Romans 3:23;
6:23; Ezekiel 18:4; John 5:24).
Secondly, realising that if I want a relationship with Almighty God who is perfect, and recognising that I am not perfect, I
need to look to the Lord Jesus Christ as the only Saviour (I Corinthians 15:3; 1 Peter 2:24; lsaiah 53:6; John 3:16).
Thirdly, by the exercise of my own free will I personally receive the Lord Jesus Christ as my Saviour, believing that He
died personally for me and that He is what He claims to be in an individual, personal and living way (John 1:12; 3:36;
Acts 16:31; 4:12).
The results of Salvation
The results of this are unbelievably wonderful:
My sins are taken away (John 1:29),
I possess eternal life now (I John 5:11,12),
I become a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17),
The Holy Spirit takes up His residence in my life (I Corinthians 6:19),
And I will never perish (John 10:28-30).
This truthfully is life's greatest transaction. This is the goal of all people; this is the ultimate of our existence. We invite
and exhort any reader who has not become a Christian by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ to follow these simple
instructions and be born again eternally into God's family (Matthew 11:28; John 1:12; Acts 4:12; 16:31).
© Evangelical Bible College of Western Australia 2004 - PO Box 163 Armadale Western Australia 6992
Many other Christian resources are available freely from our internet web site: www.ebcwa.org.au and
http://ebcwa.free.org.nz for weekly messages in MP3 format.
For further information contact Dr Peter Moses at PO Box 163 Armadale WA 6992 or email Brian Huggett
brianhuggett@bigpond.com.au
We encourage you to freely copy and distribute these materials to your Pastor and friends. You only, need written
permission from EBCWA if you intend using the materials in publications for resale. We encourage wide distribution
freely!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
3
CHAPTER ONE: THE VISION ON PATMOS
10
CHAPTER TWO MESSAGE TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES
25
CHAPTER THREE: MESSAGE TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES
42
CHAPTER FOUR: WHEN WE GET TO HEAVEN
61
CHAPTER FIVE: LAMB OF GOD/LION OF JUDAH
69
CHAPTER SIX: THE SEVEN SEALS OF HISTORY
75
CHAPTER SEVEN: TRIBULATION EVANGELISM
90
CHAPTER EIGHT: BASIS OF THE TRUMPET JUDGMENTS
103
CHAPTER NINE: TWO END-TIME INVASIONS
114
CHAPTER TEN: FEEDING ON THE WORD OF GOD
125
CHAPTER ELEVEN: TWO WITNESSES AND TRIBULATION EVANGELISM
130
CHAPTER TWELVE: THE FALL OF THE DRAGON
141
CHAPTER THIRTEEN: THE DEVIL’S TRIANGLE
151
CHAPTER FOURTEEN: HARVEST OF FAITH/VINTAGE OF WRATH
163
CHAPTER FIFTEEN: PRELUDE OF FINAL JUDGMENTS
172
CHAPTER SIXTEEN: SEVEN CUPS OF DOOM
177
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: RELIGIOUS BABYLON.
189
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: COMMERCIAL BABYLON.
200
CHAPTER NINETEEN: SECOND ADVENT OF CHRIST
212
CHAPTER TWENTY: THE MILLENNIAL REIGN
221
CHAPTERS TWENTY-ONE: THE HEAVENLY STATE
231
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: THE HEAVENLY STATE
242
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INTRODUCTION
Just as Genesis is the book or beginnings, Revelation is the book of consummation. In it, the divine programme of
redemption begun in Genesis is brought to fruition, and the holy name of God is vindicated before all creation. Like no
other book, Revelation opens our eyes to the awesome spiritual warfare waged in heaven and earth and it reminds us
fully and finally of the Lord’s victory.
CONTRAST BETWEEN GENESIS 1-3 AND REVELATION 22
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth Genesis 1:1
I saw a new heaven and a new earth Revelation 21:1
The darkness He called night Genesis 1:5
There shall be no night there Revelation 21:25
God made the two great lights sun and moon; Genesis 1:16
The city has no need of the sun or of the moon Revelation 21:23
In the day that you eat from it you shall surely die Genesis 2:17
And there shall no longer be any death Revelation 21:4
Satan appears as deceiver of mankind Genesis 3:1
Satan disappears forever Revelation 20:10
Shown a garden into which defilement entered Genesis 3:6,7
Shown a city into which defilement will never enter Revelation 21:27
Walk of God with man interrupted Genesis 3:8-10
Walk of God with man resumed Revelation 21:3
Initial triumph of the serpent Genesis 3:13
Ultimate triumph of the Lamb Revelation 20:10; 22:3
I will greatly multiply your pain Genesis 3:16
There shall no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain Revelation 21:4
Cursed is the ground because of you Genesis 3:17
There shall no longer be any curse Revelation 22:1
Man's dominion broken in the fall of man, Adam Genesis 3:19
Man's dominion restored in me rule of the new man, Christ Revelation 22:5
First paradise closed Genesis 3:23
New paradise opened Revelation 21:25
Access to the tree of life disinherited in Adam Genesis 3:24
Access to the tree of life reinstated in Christ Revelation 22:14
They were driven from God's presence Genesis 3:24
They shall see His face Revelation 22:4
In a very real sense, Revelation 21 and 22 is the new Genesis, but this time there will be no fall. In broadest terms, the
Bible gives the story of God's work in creation, redemption, and re-creation, and it centres on the incarnation of the Godman. Revelation is the book that winds up the time-space universe created in Genesis 1 and opens the door into eternity.
The story of man’s placement within this temporary universe began with God’s creative power and certain plan and it
ends with God’s creative power and certain plan opening into eternity. The space-time bubble of human history on this
present world is wrapped up and put away. 2 Peter 3:10.
Although there are numerous prophecies in the Gospels and Epistles, Revelation is the only New Testament book that
focuses primarily on prophetic events. It is written in the form of apocalyptic literature (cf. Daniel and Zechariah) by a
prophet (Revelation10:11; 22:9) and refers to itself as a prophetic book (Revelation 1:3; 22:7,10,18,19).
No book in the Bible is more misunderstood and misinterpreted. As a result many leave it alone (eg. John Calvin). Yet
it is the only book which promises a special blessing to all who read and heed it (Revelation1:3).
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DATE
It is likely that John wrote this book in A.D. 95-96. The date of his release from Patmos in unknown, but it is said he was
allowed to return to Ephesus after the reign of Domitian who died in 96 AD. Passages like Revelation 1:11; 22:7,9-10, 18,
19 suggest that the book was completed in initial form before John's release. The Gospel of John was probably written
after it, and the Letters written after the Gospel.
HUMAN AUTHOR
The style, symmetry, and plan of Revelation show that it was written by one author, four times named John (Revelation
1:1, 4, 9; 22:8;]. Because of its contents and its address to seven churches the book of the Revelation quickly circulated
and became widely known and accepted in the early church.
It was frequently mentioned and quoted by second and third century Christian writers and was received early as part of
the canon of New Testament books. From the beginning the Revelation was considered an authentic work of the apostle
John, the same John who wrote the Gospel and three Epistles. This was true of Justin Martyr, Melito, Irenaeus, the
Muratorian Canon, Tertullian, Clement of Alexandria, Origen, and others.
DOCTRINE
JOHN
The first leader of the church at Jerusalem, the Apostle James, was killed in the Temple at Jerusalem around 65 AD and
John became the Jerusalem Church leader. The Jewish revolt broke out soon after this and at any early point in the
siege of that city by the Romans in 67 AD, when the Roman army moved away for a time, John led the church across the
Jordan to safety in the city of Pella. At approximately age 70, John came to the Roman province of Asia (Turkey) around
70 A.D. He was called to lead the church at Ephesus possibly after the martyrdom of Timothy.
He took with him the aged Mary, the Lord’s mother and her grave is still to be seen in Ephesus. Establishing a base of
operations in Ephesus, he apparently had a circuit ministry to the seven churches listed in Revelation chapters 2 and 3.
These were key churches of the Eastern Mediterranean. John’s ministry became the guiding light for all the churches of
the Roman world through these last years of the first century.
In 95 to 96 A.D., he was banished to Patmos by-Domitian, who died in 96 AD. John was then released. John was
preserved by God because his work was not yet finished. After writing the Revelation, he continued to minister until, as
tradition has it, he died of old age, the only one of the apostles to do so. In this it could be said he had been blessed by
the fifth commandment as he had cared for Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary had been placed in his hands at the Cross,
and he was faithful until the end to this charge to care for her. Exodus 20:12 cf John 19:26, 27.
WHERE WRITTEN
It was written from the isle of Patmos, a volcanic island twelve kilometres [eight miles] long and six kilometres [four miles]
wide off the coast of modern Turkey (Revelation 1:9).
TO WHOM WRITTEN
John directed this prophetic word to seven churches in the Roman province of Asia to which he had been instructed to
write in Revelation 1:3,4. The messages to these churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 begin with Ephesus, the most
prominent, and continue in a clockwise direction until Laodicea is reached.
It is likely that this book was initially carried along this circular route. While each of these messages had particular
significance for these churches, at this time of persecution, they were also relevant for the church as a whole ("He who
has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches”.]
John's effective testimony for Christ led the Roman authorities to exile him on Patmos in the Aegean Sea.[Revelation 1:9]
This island of volcanic rock was one of several used by the Romans to banish criminals and political offenders.
OCCASION OF WRITING
The church was nearly 70 years old. It had made enormous growth, but it had suffered greatly and was still suffering.
The first persecution was that of Nero ( A.D. 64-67). Multitudes of Christians were martyred by cruel means in and
around Rome.
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The second great persecution was instituted by Emperor Domitian (A.D. 95-96). It was short but extremely severe. Over
40,000 Christians may have been tortured and slain. This was the persecution in which John was banished to the Isle of
Patmos as at his age the Romans probably thought he would die naturally there and not become another “martyr”.
The third persecution, that of Trajan, was soon to begin (A.D. 98). John had lived through the first two, and the church
was now about to enter the third. It is thought that John died of old age and the results of his privation on Patmos within
two years of his release. These were dark days for the church. In addition, the church was suffering from within through
corruption and apostasy. The satanic assault upon God’s people was building power and malice in these days. The early
church recorded that in John’s last years he was carried to church on a bier, being unable to walk unaided, and he would
constantly say aloud, “little children love one another”.
PURPOSE
The purposes for which Revelation was written depend to some extent on how the book as a whole is interpreted.
Because of-its complex imagery and symbolism, Revelation is controversial as far as interpretation is concerned.
INTERPRETATION ALTERNATIVES
1.
PRETERIST INTERPRETATION
The prophecies of Revelation are viewed as having been fulfilled in the early history of the Church and are all past.
Therefore an outline would be:
[i]
Chapters. 5-11 tell of the church's victory over Judaism.
[ii]
Chapters. 12-19 tell of her victory over pagan Rome. '
[iii]
Chapters. 20-22 tell of the happy bliss and glory of the church.
There is no indication that the early church interpreted this book in this manner. This view of the Book of the Revelation
came from a Spanish Jesuit of Antwerp named Alcasar in the beginnings of the seventeenth century to counteract the
teachings of the Reformers which included the concept that the Pope was the Antichrist.
2.
THE IDEALIST, POETIC, SPIRITUALIST OR ALLEGORICAL INTERPRETATION
This interpretation considers the book a pictorial unfolding of great principles without reference to actual events. Such
people regard the book only as a form of spiritual encouragement and assurance of the ultimate triumph of Christianity.
Augustine regarded Revelation as presenting in a symbolic way the total conflict between Christianity and evil or the City
of God versus the City of Satan. This point of view originated in the Alexandrian School of Theology represented earlier
in Clement of Alexandria and Origen. To them the book was one big allegory. The holders of this view do not believe that
the 1,000 years mentioned in Revelation 20 should be read literally and are therefore Amillennial in outlook.
3.
THE HISTORICIST INTERPRETATION
This view understands the book as portraying a panorama of the history of the church from the days of John to the end
time or the Second Advent. Though it had earlier disciples, Joachim of Fiore [1135-1202], a Roman Catholic scholar, is
largely responsible for this, and was also the originator of the first forms of the theology of post-millennialism.
This method of interpretation achieved popularity during the Reformation because of its identification of the pope and the
papacy as the beasts of chapter 13. Wycliffe, Luther, Joseph Mede were adherents of this view.
One problem with this view is that no two scholars can agree in the identification of the personnel pictured in Revelation
or of the historical interpretation of the events. The very multiplicity of historical interpretations is its own refutation. If this
is the correct method of interpretation, then it is clear that no one has found the key.
4.
THE FUTURIST OR LITERAL INTERPRETATION
This views most of the book, Revelation chapters 4-22 as prophecy yet to be fulfilled. This was the view held by the early
church until spiritual decline corrupted her doctrine, and the organized church moved away from literal hermeneutics.
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Under this interpretation, the events of chapters 4-19 relate to the period just preceding the second coming of Christ.
This is generally regarded as a period of seven years with emphasis on the last three and a half years, known as the
“Great Tribulation”.
Chapter 19 refers to the second coming of Christ onto the earth, chapter 20 to the future millennial kingdom, where
Christ will rule in His kingdom on the earth, which will follow, and chapters 21 and 22 to events either contemporary or
subsequent to the millennium. In these last two chapters we enter the eternal state with a new creation beyond space
and time.
In contrast to other methods of interpretation, the futuristic position allows the most literal interpretation of the specific
prophecies. It is based upon the truth that, as all the prophecies relating to the First Advent were literally fulfilled, then it
is logical to accept that the prophecies relating to the Second Advent will also be literally fulfilled.
Though recognising the frequent symbolism in various prophecies, the events foreshadowed by these symbols and their
interpretation are regarded as being fulfilled in a normal way, eg. chapter 13 is considered a prophecy of the future world
empire with its political and religious heads represented by the two beasts.
Generally speaking proponents of the first three views are Postmillennial or Amillennial, while futurists are Premillennial.
Postmillennialists believe that the spread of the gospel will lead to a golden age of peace on earth followed by the return
of Christ. Amillennialists believe that the Christian's present heavenly position in Christ is the true "millennium", not an
earthly kingdom.
In contrast Premillennialists believe that the six appearances of the phrase "a thousand years" in Revelation 20: 2-7 are
to be taken literally as the duration of the earthly kingdom that Christ will establish between the second advent and the
creation of the new universe. It is of interest that a number of early Jewish traditions divided history into seven one
thousand year periods of which the last would be an age of peace.
Advocates of all four interpretive approaches to Book of the Revelation agree that it was written to assure the recipients
of the ultimate triumph of Christ over all who rise up against Him and His saints. The first readers were facing dark times
of persecution and even worse times would follow. This is clearly true, difference only relate to future fulfilments, but the
message of the book is that the Lord will triumph and so will all who walk with Jesus through the storms that come.
The believers of the time needed to be encouraged to persevere by standing firm in Christ in view of God's plan for the
righteous and the wicked. This plan is especially clear in the stirring words of the book’s epilogue (Revelation 22:6-21).
The book was also written to challenge complacent Christians to stop compromising with the world. According to
futurists, Revelation serves the additional purpose of providing a perspective on end-time events that would have
meaning and relevance to the spiritual lives of all succeeding generations of Christians.
The Apocalypse has been given an appropriate place as the last book in the canon of Scripture because it ties the
themes of the Bible together. Just as Genesis is the book of beginnings, Revelation is the book of consummation.
Genesis opens time, with the birth of this present space-time universe, and Revelation closes it, and opens the door to
eternity and the new creation beyond space and time.
ADOPTED METHOD
Having stated the four methods we will adopt the ancient and orthodox one, the one that was once and for all given to
the saints - Jude 3 - the futurist or literal interpretation. We are unashamedly pre-millennial in our viewpoint.
SYMBOLS
The Revelation is the “Apocalypse”; It is the "unveiling", and as such it is meant to be understood. However, the
apocalyptic style necessitates heavy use of symbols. These symbols save a thousand words by presenting a Biblical
concept in picture form. They are drawn from well understood images that draw upon Daniel, Ezekiel, Zechariah and
other prophets of the Old Testament.
Many symbols are interpreted in the book itself; others are found elsewhere in Scripture or in historical background.
Symbols must be seen from Biblical context and their historical setting, not be seen as we think today, or as a book by
pagans about primal symbols records meanings.
Some examples are as follow:[i]
The seven lamp stands (Revelation 1:12) are the seven churches (Revelation 1:20).'
[ii]
The seven stars (Revelation 1:16) are seven angels (pastors of the seven churches) Revelation 1:20
[iii]
The sharp two-edged sword (Revelation 1:16) is the word of God (Hebrews 4:12).
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[iv]
The woman clothed with the Sun, Moon, and Stars (Revelation 12:1) is the nation of Israel as seen in Genesis
37:9-11. It is noted that Joseph's family knew what these symbols meant.
[v]
The great red dragon (Revelation 12:3) is identified as Satan (Revelation 12:9).
[vi]
The seven heads and ten horns (Revelation 12:3), seen again in connection with the Antichrist (Revelation
13:1), are identified in Revelation 17:9-12 as the final Gentile empire, the revived Roman Empire or Imperialism.
[vii]
The Great Whore (Revelation 17:3-4) is apostate religion (Revelation 17:5-6) centred in a city (Revelation
17:18).
The danger with symbols is "interpreting" them in light of what that symbol may represent in modern times, leading to
some wild and eccentric "hidden meanings." We will follow accepted biblical hermeneutics and let scripture interpret
scripture.
DISPENSATIONS AND REVELATION
The Book of the Revelation can be divided into three sections as follows:A.
"Write the things which thou hast seen." Chapter 1 deals with the vision of John on Patmos of the glorified
Jesus Christ.
B.
"And the things which are." Chapters 2 and 3 deal with the seven churches of Asia then in existence. As we will
see shortly, these seven churches represent characteristics that exist throughout the Church Age
C.
"And the things which shall be hereafter". Having dealt with the Church Age in Chapters 2 and 3, John is
commanded to deal with the rest of human history following the Rapture of the Church
This last and major section is subdivided into four sections:[i] Chapters 4 and 5 are the Church in Heaven. These chapters prepare for the Tribulational judgments.
[ii] Chapters 6 through 19 are the Tribulation period. The most extended passage of Revelation deals with the
seven years of the restoration of Israel and the judgments on the earth. This age is the "time of wrath" (1
Thessalonians. 1:10, 5:9); the "70th week of Daniel" (Daniel 9:24-27); the "time of Jacob's trouble" (Jeremiah
30:1-8); and the "time of tribulation coming on the whole earth" (Revelation 3:10).
[iii] Chapter 20 reveals the Millennial Reign of Christ and the Great White Throne judgment.
[iv] Chapters 21 & 22: The Eternal State.
Chapters 6 to 19 can be further subdivided as follows:Chapter 6:
The Seven Seals Opened
Chapter 7:
The Sealing of the 144,000 Jewish Evangelists
Chapter 8:
The Seven Trumpet Judgments
Chapter 9:
The Seven Trumpets Blown
Chapter 10:
Angelic Herald of the 2nd Advent
Chapter 11:
The Herald of the Two Prophets
Chapter 12:
The Seven Personages of the Tribulation
Chapter 13:
The Antichrist and the False Prophet
Chapter 14:
-The 144,000 Jews at the Second Advent and the Bloodshed of Armageddon.
Chapter 15:
The Seven Vials
Chapter 16:
The Vials Opened
Chapters 17 & 18: Babylon the Whore (Religious and Commercial)
Chapter 19: The Second Advent of Jesus Christ
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CONCLUSION
In 1903 Dr C. I. Schofield stated "This book is so written that as the actual time of these events approach the current
events will unlock the meaning of the book." Just over 111 years later in 2014 we are seeing this start to happen.
Sir Robert Anderson, author of "The Coming Prince" said that he could not understand how Revelation chapters 12 and
13 could occur. We can now understand how they can be fulfilled literally.
As the time of the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ approaches this book is becoming more and more real and
meaningful. Israel is back in the land after nearly 2,000 years. There is a strong move towards one world government
and centralised planning and control of world finances and trade.
Technically it is possible for all of the world to see events in Jerusalem happening at the time of the events as shown in
Chapter 11. A one world electronic monetary system is upon us and CCTV coverage in cities makes it possible to
monitor populations like never before and control movements and finances of people.
There is strong evidence that we are the generation who will see the return of the Lord Jesus Christ to set up his
kingdom and reign as the greater Son of David. Matthew 24:32-39. It is therefore most timely that we study the Book of
the Revelation. As we will see in the text below, the word “shortly” means that once things start to happen they unfold
quickly. The generation that sees the start of these things may be the one to see the end of them.
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CHAPTER ONE
THE VISION ON PATMOS
There is much confusion today regarding the Revelation. It is a great loss to the Church that this book is bypassed as
without significance or as a book that no one understands. Much of this error is due to a lack of understanding the first
chapter. Here we find the answers to most, if not all, of the false views of this great book. This is also a book that makes
sense once we have read the earlier 65 books! It is basic biblical ignorance that hides the content of his book.
The Purposes of the Book 1:1-3
[i]
To Reveal Jesus Christ. - verse 1
[ii]
To Reveal The Course of History. verse 1
[iii]
To Finish The Testimony of John. - verse 2.
[iv].
To Bless Those Who Study. - verse 3
1:1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must
shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
“Apokalupsis” is in the singular and has no definite article which gives great emphasis to it. It means to uncover, not
create confusion. It is an unveiling of truth, not a veiling of it. This book is meant to be understood. This word which is
translated "revelation" is from “apo” (away from) and “kalupto” (a veil, cover). Therefore, the object of the book is to
unveil or reveal many things, the most important being the Lord Jesus Christ. It is the revelation/unveiling of the climax of
the Lord’s earthly ministry and service. It is the word from which we get the word apocalypse, but the modern usage of
the term tends to sensationalize and catastrophize its meaning. It is a word also used for the Rapture and the Second
Advent in 1 Peter 1:7-13.
This is not a sealed book as Daniel was when it was written - Revelation 22:10 cf Daniel 12:9. Daniel is more fully
revealed in light of Revelation, although its final meaning will only be revealed by the Spirit directly to those who go
through the last years of the Great Tribulation period. Daniel 12:9-13.
In Luke 2:32, The Lord is called, "A light of revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Thy people Israel." In this book,
Jesus Christ is revealed as the focus as well as the one who controls the course of history.
Jesus Christ is written in the Greek genitive case. This means the unveiling “belongs to” Jesus Christ.
The phrase "which must shortly take place" is misunderstood to mean things which happened in John's time. The same
words are found in Revelation 22:6, after John is shown things from the eternal state (Revelation 21:1-22:5).
The word “must’ shows that these events will take place; God guarantees it, so it will happen. The word translated
“shortly” does not mean at once or our use of the word shortly, but means that once the day for fulfilment comes there
will be no delay in its execution. It implies God is in charge of history or His Story and that all will occur as in the Plan.
We therefore know that God is simply reminding us that our life is "a vapour that appears for a while" (James 4:14) and
that "a thousand years are as one day" with God (2 Peter 3:8).
REVELATIONS MEDIATED THROUGH ANGELS
Many times revelations from God were mediated through angels [i] The Law of Moses -, Exodus 3:2 , Galatians 3:19, Acts 7:53, Hebrews 2:2
[ii] Prophetical announcements to Daniel - Daniel 7:16, 8:16-26, 9:20-27, 10:1-12:13
[iii] Prophetical announcements to Zechariah - Zechariah 1:9, 2:3, 4:1,5, 5:5, 6:4,5
[iv] Announcement of the Birth of John to Zacharias - Luke 1:11-20
[v] Announcement of the Birth of Jesus to Mary - Luke 1:26-38, and Joseph - Matthew 1:20-21
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Angels will play an important role in this book not only revealing prophecy to John but carrying the prophecies out.
Old Testament prophets were called servants of God, a name which John adopts. The Greek word for servant is doulos,
and means bond slave. It was the lowest form of slave who was bonded to the master for the rest of his natural life.
The angel "communicated" or "signified" it to John. The word used here “Semion” means to give a signal or sign. The
lessons of the book are taught in symbols. John will ask at times for their meaning, but at other times he will
understand immediately from the context of Ezekiel, Daniel or Zechariah’s use of the same symbol/sign/image.
The sequence of revelation is God the Father - Jesus Christ - Angel - John - the rest of us as His Servants also.
APPLICATION
God the Father, who is the author of the plan of salvation, gave this revelation to our Lord to show those who believe in
Him the course of history from the time of the Apostle John to the end of time. It is Jesus Christ’s revelation and he has
given it to us.
This also shows that God is all knowing and not only knows future history but knows of our problems and their solution.
He knows all things in detail. We can have confidence in Him. - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
It also shows that God wishes us to know His Son and not to be ignorant of the plan of God for our future and the end of
this temporary world and universe. He is a God who cares and has sought out man rather than man seeking God.
1:2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
This message was sent by God to the Apostle John by a teaching angel. (cf. Revelation 22:9).
This is the same John who "bore witness to the Word of God". (cf. John 1:1-3; 1 John 1:1-4). The verb "martureo" is in
the aorist, active indicative third person singular showing that the messenger in verse 1 at a point of time in A.D. 96 gave
witness or testimony which was a reality to John.
John "saw" the book visually and recorded "all that he saw." The verb used here is “eidon” which means to know or to be
acquainted with. Many of the words John uses are indications that he visually saw what he recorded and found at times
great difficulty in expressing things he had little or no frame of reference to fully understand.
Witness is specifically a legal term. At this time Christians were being betrayed to Roman law courts, but in the context of
Revelation “witness” is the Christian proclamation of knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ providing evidence in the
light of the court of God’s final judgment.
The Revelation is a picture book based on the rest of the Word of God. The signs and symbols of the book are found
elsewhere in Scripture. Many have said it is “hard to understand”, but it rests upon the other 65 books and if these are
well known then the understanding is easier. Both Dr Moses and Dr McEwan did not teach this book until they had been
believers for over forty years; that time frame is probably a good one for teaching and writing upon this book.
APPLICATION
We see that Revelation is a book for people who love the Word of God and study it in depth from front to back.
Superficial study is the greatest cause for misunderstanding the book. It is therefore of the utmost importance that the
book is looked at in detail.
We need to know the meanings of the signs and symbols used in other books of the Bible to be able to interpret the
Revelation.
1:3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are
written therein: for the time is at hand.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Obviously God does not offer a blessing to those who understand if no one is capable of understanding.
Blessings are common in the Old Testament and Jewish literature. However the best known is in the New Testament Matthew 5:1-12. Blessing is God’s desire for all believers, that we might rejoice in the Lord and enjoy all he has for us in
time and eternity. John 10:10.
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It should noted that "anaginosko" is in the Greek present tense which reinforces the fact that it is a thorough knowledge
of the Book of the Revelation that is required of all believers.
The word "kairos” which is used here means a fixed time or definite period rather than "chronos" which means a space of
time whether short or long. He is saying that a fixed time is at hand or imminent. This use of “kairos” implies that God
has fixed a time which is certain to happen, but it is going to happen on His timing not on man’s speculation.
Blessed is in the singular for those that read but plural for those that hear and keep. The singular for read indicates that it
is publicly read or preached. The early church read the scriptures aloud at each meeting; a practise we should copy.
BEATITUDES
1.
The Blessing of Salvation - Matthew 5:3
2.
The Blessing of Suffering - Matthew 5:4
3.
The Blessing of Humility - Matthew 5:5
4.
The Blessing of Spiritual Desire - Matthew 5:6
5.
The Blessing of Grace in Action - Matthew 5:7
6.
The Blessing of Single-mindedness - Matthew 5:8
7.
The Blessing of Witnessing - Matthew 5:9
8.
The Blessing of Persecution - Matthew 5:10-12
BLESSINGS IN THE BOOK OF THE REVELATION
1.
Blessing for teaching, studying, and obeying Revelation. (1:3)
2.
Blessing to martyrs. (14:13)
3.
Blessing to those who are awake, keeping their robes pure-. (16:15)
4.
Blessing to those invited to the Marriage Feast. (19:9)
[a]
[b] .
Friends of the Bridegroom (Old Testament saints). (John 3:29)
Friends of the Bride (Tribulation saints). (Matthew 25:1-10)
5.
Blessing to those in the first resurrection (believers of all dispensations). (20:6)
6.
Blessing to those in the Tribulation who apply doctrines of the Revelation. (22:7)
7.
Blessing to those who wash their robes by faith in Jesus Christ (regeneration). (22:14)
APPLICATION
If the fixed time mentioned in this verse is near we should take careful note of what is happening in the world as it is of
great importance to believers if we are rightly going to define what is happening and help others to do so. There are
enough signs in this book to be able to specifically assist others once the events begin to unfold.
There is a threefold blessing which comes from reading, hearing and keeping the things recorded here. James 1:19-27.
The blessing is to the pastor ("he who reads") and the congregation ("those who hear") who both understand and obey
its teachings ("heed the things which are written in it").
The book of Revelation involves seven blessings or beatitudes as noted earlier. This book promises spiritual happiness
and blessing to those who take the time and study to receive its truths. While blessings are available for the study of
God’s word in general a unique blessing is available through the study of this particular book.
Those believers who love and look for his return are promised a special crown as a reward. The rewards are in the form
of crowns which are presented by the Lord to believers for actions performed during their Christian walk.
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The original text implies continual reading, hearing and observing so that this is a book to be studied and not neglected.
THE AUTHOR OF THE BOOK 1:4-8
Though John acts as the secretary, the author is God Himself.
He greets in the name of the Trinity the seven churches of Asia where he had a circuit ministry:[i].
From God the Father - verse 4.
[ii]
From God the Holy Spirit - verse 4
[iii]
From God the Son - verse 5
1:4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which
was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
John is writing to the seven churches in Asia which are specifically stated in chapters 2 and 3 as Ephesus, Smyrna,
Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.
John sends greetings from the Godhead.
The standard Greek greeting was “greetings” [chairein gk] a Greek term related to [charis gk]. The Jewish people greeted
one another with “peace” and Jewish letters often began with “greetings and peace”.
John adopts this greeting in a Christian form used by the apostle Paul in many of his epistles, showing it was from God
that the grace and peace came.
The preposition "from" speaks of ultimate source, of the Holy Spirit of God.
The phrase “which is, and which was, and which is to come” in the Greek is “ho on ho en ho erchomenos” which
contains eimi in the imperfect tense means “the one being and the one that was and the one coming, that is, the Eternal
One”. This cannot be stated in any stronger way.
The "Him" here is the eternal God, who is timeless and eternal. It is God's desire that through the grace of the Cross
mankind might experience true and eternal peace.
From him who is, who was and is to come especially reflects a Greek exposition of the Old Testament name I AM
[Exodus 3 ;14]
The "seven Spirits" here speak of the completeness and fullness of the Holy Spirit, it is the task of the Holy Spirit to
reveal the Son. (John. 16:13-14; Revelation. 3:1).
He is seen in Revelation. 4:5 and 5:6 in connection with the Son. This figure is taken from the Old Testament in Isaiah.
11:1-2 and Zechariah 4:10.
Seven speaks of that which is complete and that which is representative of the complete plan of God. For instance the
Sabbath, circumcision, and worship are all associated with the seventh day.
In the Old Testament we notice among other things that Jericho was compassed seven times, Naaman was instructed to
bathe seven times, Nebuchadnezzar was seven years under the discipline of God. There were seven feasts of Israel and
seven articles of furniture in the Tabernacle.
In the New Testament there are seven beatitudes, seven petitions in the Lord’s Prayer, seven parables in Matthew 13,
seven loaves fed the multitudes and the Lord spoke seven times from the Cross.
It is of interest that there were not only the seven churches in the area mentioned but many other established churches
such as those at Colosse, Miletus, Hierapolis and Troas. John leaves us in no doubt about the meaning of “seven”.
PEACE
Three types of peace are referred to in the bible.
(a)
Peace on Earth:- The unlimited peace when Jesus Christ establishes his millennial reign on the earth.
(Isaiah 9:6, 7, Isaiah 11:1-12, Luke 2:14)
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(b)
Peace with God:- Which comes when a believer is born again as a result of justification by faith. (2
Peter 1:1,2, Ephesians 2:14-17, Philippians 4:9). Reconciliation.
(c)
Peace of God:- Which is the peace of believers in their soul and spirit who have cast all their cares on
the Lord. (1 Peter 5.7, Philippians 4:6,7). The Spirit filled life.
THE SEVEN SPIRITS OF GOD
1.
There is only one Holy Spirit.
2.
In Isaiah 11:1, 2 we are told of the Branch of the Lord - the Messiah - Jesus Christ on whom the seven fold spirit
of God will rest.
3.
The seven fold spirit is pictured in the golden lampstand in the tabernacle made of gold - deity and with seven
candlesticks.
4.
Seven is the perfect number - God's number.
5.
The Seven Spirits of God - is the Holy Spirit.
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
6.
The Spirit of the Lord.
The Spirit of Wisdom.
The Spirit of Understanding.
The Spirit of Counsel.
The Spirit of Might.
The Spirit of Knowledge.
The Spirit of the Fear of the Lord.
(Revelation 1:4)
Grace be unto you, and peace from him which is, which was and which is to come, and from the Seven Spirits
which are before the throne.
Greetings come from a person, so the Seven Spirits is the Holy Spirit. He is a person not a force. Seven
indicates his perfection as stated in point 4.
I AM
There are seven "I am's" in the Bible.
1.
I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35) - only the Lord can answer the hunger of mankind.
2.
I am the Light of the World (John 8:12) - the only true light to live by is the Lord's Light.
3.
I am the Door to the Fold (John 10:7) - the only way into the Plan of God is though the person of Christ.
4.
I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) - the only true caring, faithful One is the Lord.
5.
I am the Way ,the Truth and the Life (John 14:6) - the only Life is in Christ.
6.
I am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25) - Eternal life is in Christ alone: to reject Him is to face eternal
existence in the Lake of Fire.
7.
I am the Vine (John 15:5) - the only true production in Life is in full fellowship with Christ through the power of
the Holy Spirit.
APPLICATION
Whilst John is writing to seven historic churches in Asia Minor the number seven is seen as a concept of God’s
completeness. So when John addresses the seven churches he is signifying that he is writing to the whole church.
Grace always precedes peace, because only when we receive the provisions of God’s grace do we have peace with God
and then peace with ourselves, and with others. (Romans. 5:1).
John was directed to write to only seven named churches because he was giving the complete history of the church as
well as typical representative churches which will be seen in chapters 2 and 3. This book is for all churches of all time.
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1:5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the
kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Here Christ is revealed as Prophet (faithful witness), Priest ("firstborn" speaks of the O.T. right of the firstborn, which was
the right of priesthood, inheritance, and rule), and King (ruler of kings of earth) - Psalm 89:27.
He is the one "always loving us", as the present participle shows eternal love. He is he who "released us once for all"
shown in the culminative aorist from our sins.
This same Christ will return and reign forever. (cf. Daniel. 7:13; Zechariah. 12:10, 13:6).
The Seven Titles of Christ
In this and the following verse seven titles are given to the Lord Jesus Christ
[a] Faithful witness - He is the only trustworthy witness to the facts of this book.
[b] First begotten of the dead - “prototokos” - has to do with the resurrection . He is the first to rise from the dead to die
no more.
[c] The Prince of the Kings of the earth - speaks of his ultimate position during the Millennium.
[d] Unto him that loved us - this is in the present tense and emphasises his constant attitude towards his own.
[e] He has loosed us from our sins in his own blood.
The last two are in verse 6
[f] He has made us kings and priests which allows us to approach God direct with our confession.
[g] He has the dominion unto the ages of ages. All things were not only made by Him but all things were made for Him.
The universe exists for Him.
APPLICATION
Having mentioned the Father and the Holy Spirit in verse four here we have the Lord Jesus Christ. We therefore have
the three members of the Trinity involved here. A faithful witness is always a reliable one. [Proverbs 14:5, 25; Isaiah 8:2,
Jeremiah 42:5] We can therefore rely on Him completely. He is not only all powerful and King of Kings but He is our
Saviour and freed us from our sins by his sacrifice on the Cross
Jesus Christ loved us when he went to the Cross and he still loves us with that intensity today.
Here we see the first and second advents together.
1:6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and
ever. Amen.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
In the second half of verse five and this verse John praises the Lord because:[i] He loved us
[ii] He loosed us from our sins by his blood
[iii] He made us to be a kingdom
[iv] He made us to be priests unto God the Father
[v] To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.
It is of interest that after God redeemed Israel from Egypt he called them a “kingdom of priests” [Exodus 19:6] indicating
that all were holy to him. We are all holy and now (through Christ) royal priests also.
APPLICATION
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By faith in Him we are made a "Royal Priesthood" (1 Peter. 2:5-9). As priests we have access directly to God. This why
our prayers are offered to the Father through the High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
1:7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all
kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.
Background and Analysis
Like Matthew 24:30 this verse blends Daniel 7:13, ‘coming with the clouds on the day of the Lord’, with Zechariah 12:10,
‘those who pierced him’. The Zechariah reference reminds us that the Second Advent occurs only after Israel’s
repentance and acceptance of the Lord Jesus as their Messiah. The clouds themselves may not be normal clouds, or
only normal clouds, but the myriad of believers arriving accompanying the Lord in white garments. “Tribes of the earth”
extends the image beyond the tribes of Israel - Zechariah 12:12 to all peoples. Cities in the Greek East at the time of
writing were still divided into “tribes”.
The language of Acts 1:9-11 states that Christ was received by a cloud in His ascension [verse 9] and will return in like
manner. [verse 11]. At that time he disappeared from them into clouds, while at his Second Advent he will appear to the
believers waiting for him from the clouds. He went into heaven and from heaven he returns.
APPLICATION
This gives us the theme of the entire book which is the Second Coming of Christ. From these introductory verses it is
clear that this book deals with events immediately preceding the Second Coming, the Second Coming itself, and what
will then follow that event, through into the eternal state. Genesis began when eternity touched time and the space-time
universe began, and Revelation takes us to the point where the space-time universe ends and eternity is all in all.
This shows that His coming will be a physical and bodily appearance at the Second Advent. This is in contrast with the
Rapture of the Church in which the Lord does not return to touch the earth. The world wide viewing of this may well
require international television [c.f. The Gulf War], but may be the result of refraction of light due to the immense tectonic
events described in the book. We don’t need to speculate upon this, as at the time it will be clear.
He is coming back bodily to physically and personally establish his kingdom on earth for the Millennium.
Before He returns the Jewish people will have for the first time recognise Him as their long rejected Messiah. They will
mourn as they gaze on the One who they rejected some 2000 years ago. Zechariah 12:10ff.
1:8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is
to come, the Almighty.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
This verse shows again that Jesus Christ is God, as his title is the first and the last.
The Old Testament had already called God the first and the last - Isaiah 41:4. This is the powerful point of calling him the
first and the last of the Greek Alphabet. None at this time would doubt John’s point; Jesus was God Eternal.
Some Jewish teachers called God, “Aleph - mem – tav” - which they said were the first middle and last letters of the
Hebrew Alphabet showing God was eternal and ruled over all time.
APPLICATION
Jesus Christ describes Himself as the eternal one encompassing the beginning and the end. He is the overall sovereign
God who is in control of history and will bring to pass the events described in the Revelation.
This also coincides with the division of the Book of the Revelation, “that which was” - chapter 1, “which is” - chapters 2
and 3, and “that which is to come” - chapters 4-22. The beginning and the ending refers to the eternity of the Son and his
being unchangeable - Hebrews 13:8
The constancy of the Lord is again shown in
[a]
[b]
[c]
“which is” - what he is now,
“which was” - the Saviour at the First Advent and
“which is to come” - Christ at the Second Advent as Sovereign over the whole earth.
We note that he loves us in verses 4-8, so we are not to be afraid of anything that is to follow. There is no limit to Christ’s
almighty power, and so there is no limit to his ability to keep his people in the midst of the events that are to be
described. Colossians 1:17, Philippians 4:7, Jude 21-25.
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THE VISION OF JOHN
Revelation 1:9-16
1:9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus
Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
John, even though he was not with the churches, was still under pressure where he was, as they were in the cities.
John describes for his congregations and for us the conditions of this vision. He was an exile on the volcanic isle of
Patmos, a gulag where slaves were worked to death in the mines. John was a prisoner in his 90's! Domitian exiled him
because of his effective ministry of the Word.
Governors of various provinces could exercise their own discretion as to whether those charged and found guilty would
be banished to an island, executed, or enslaved. Those on a higher social status often received lighter punishment.
John was banished rather than executed - cf Antipas whose execution is recorded in Revelation 2:13. Exile was either
on account of his age, the clemency of the local governor, or the expectation that he would die naturally and so avoid
“martyrdom” and encourage the church thereby.
Banishment was in two forms:[a] deportatio - including removal of property and civil rights which could only be imposed by the emperor and
[b] relegatio - without such provisions which could be imposed by the governor.
The most common places for banishment were to one of the rocky Aegean islands called the Cyclades which included
Patmos. Patmos was not deserted, it’s main city included a gymnasium and a temple to Artemis, the island’ s patron
deity.
John signified the time of trouble which is a characteristic of the present age. Romans 8:35, 12:2, 2 Corinthians 1:4,
Ephesians 3:13, 2 Timothy 1:4. This is in contrast with the future Tribulation period which is distinct from all previous
times of trouble in its unique pressures upon believers and judgments upon the evil ones. Matthew 24:21
APPLICATION
Christian testing is able to be borne and God has made provision for the Christian at such times. 1 Corinthians 10:13.
It should be noted that "tribulation, and kingdom, and perseverance", are three of the realities for those "in Christ."
Testing is essential for spiritual growth 1 Peter 1:6-7. We are to be persistent in the Christian life.
In this world if we have an antagonistic government it is possible that we could be imprisoned because of the Word of
God and evangelism. Passing of religious vilification laws could cause this to happen, but these things are simply satanic
“dry runs” for the later days. Those saved in the Tribulation period will experience the full malice of satanic governments.
It may get to the stage where one cannot “legally” say that Jesus Christ is the only way John 14:6. If this happens in our
own day, before the Tribulation, we should remain open to the Word of God and The Lord’s requirements upon our life.
1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
It is noted that John became to be in the Spirit. Ginomai means to become something that you were not before. It is
apparent that John was therefore distracted/carnal or out of fellowship before. This is a great encouragement to us, and
reminds us that these great men, were men just like us!
He would have confessed his sin as per 1 John 1:9 so that he could worship again in spirit and in truth.
The Lord’s Day is Sunday, the day of the Lord’s resurrection, and the day of regular worship for the early church.
APPLICATION
On this lonely island, the Spirit of God was John's companion and comforter.
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It is absolutely essential that a person be filled with the Holy Spirit in order to worship God and to benefit from his
teaching nowadays. There is no worship, fellowship or service apart from the filling of the Holy Spirit.
Confession of sin is essential for the believer so that he can be effective for the Lord. You need to be under the control of
the Holy Spirit to discern spiritual things. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16.
1:11 Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it
unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto
Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The voice of the resurrected Christ “as a trumpet call” commanded John to write to the seven churches all which we see
in Chapters 2 and 3.
Seest - “blepo” is in the present tense which means a constant action, active voice meaning John has to do the seeing,
indicative mood is the mood of reality. John was to report what he sees in as real a manner as he can given the limitation
of words.
Write - “grapho” - aorist tense, active voice, imperative mood which means that John must write at that point of time.
John was to write all that he saw, and the whole book was to be communicated to all the seven churches.
A messenger delivering John’s book would arrive in Ephesus first and then the other churches would be reached on foot
in the sequence given which conformed to the geographic layout of the connecting Roman roads. The distance between
the churches concerned generally varied from 50 to 70 kilometres.
CHRIST IN REVELATION
The book of the Revelation is the only book of the Bible where the Lord Jesus Christ personally describes himself.
1.
"I am the alpha and omega, the first and the last" - Jesus Christ knows all things (1:11)
2.
"I am the first and the last" - He is eternal (1:17)
3.
"I am he that liveth and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell and
death " - He became the God - man and died for us conquering death and saving us from an eternity in hell
(1:18)
4.
"These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven
golden candlesticks." - He has the ministers of the church in his hand and is present in the churches. (2:1)
5.
"These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive." - He combines eternally with his
sacrificial death. (2:8)
6.
"These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges." - He is and has the Word of God. (2:12)
7.
"These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass" He is not only Saviour but is also Judge. (2:18)
8.
"These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars."- He gave the church the Holy
Spirit so that the church can function (3:1)
9.
"These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man
shutteth; and shutteth and no man openeth." - He is holy true and has authority. He also gives opportunities to
enable us to serve. (3:7)
10.
"These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God"; - He has the
final authority and is the revelation of God and the source of God's creation. (3:14)
11.
"Behold I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and
will sup with him, and he with me." - He calls to man but does not coerce the freewill of man. (3:20)
APPLICATION
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We are related to “alpha and omega” and should always bear this in mind. The character of God is a critical doctrine on
which we must meditate. God knows and always has known everything that would happen in history. His prophecies are
totally accurate. God is the one at the beginning and the end of creation. His revelation alone makes sense of this spacetime universe and our role within it in our place and time in the flow of history. We do not have to play any other part than
our own. We must hear the Word, understand the Word, accept its authority over us, and follow our part in God’s Plan.
We are indebted to the Apostle John who had prepared himself by becoming in the Spirit in the previous verse and even
though he was over awed by the situation followed the instructions given to him meticulously. He is our mentor!
We need to be prepared so that we can share with others about the Scriptures and follow what the Bible tells us
meticulously.
1:12 And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
John hears a voice like a war trumpet and it spoke to him.
He turned and glanced [blepo], the voice sounded and having turned he saw [eidon]. It is noted here that the “act of
turning” as shown by the aorist, active, participle, preceded that of the main verb “seeing”, or being acquainted with the
source of the voice.
The seven branched menorah or candle stick was one of the most common symbols for Judaism and synagogues of
antiquity. The strong message here is not replacement theology, but continuity, and hope for Israel when they truly see
the one who was indeed their Messiah. By identifying the churches with lampstands the Holy Spirit shows the Jews that
Christianity is the true and “completed form” of Judaism irrespective of what the synagogue leaders were saying.
THE GOLDEN CANDLESTICK
The Gold Candlestick (Exodus 25:31-40)
The golden candlestick was in the Holy Place, the larger of the two compartments in the Tabernacle.
The candlestick represents Christ as the light of the world. There were seven candlesticks with a central stick,
the other six branching off the central stick, three on either side. Six is man's number, seven is God's number the perfect number.
Analogy - Man is made perfect in Christ.
The candlestick was the only light in the Holy Place. The fuel in the candlestick was oil. Oil represents the Holy
Spirit. Oil in the centre stick represents Christ being empowered and relying on the Holy Spirit during his
incarnation. Oil in the other lamps shows the Christian way of life walking in the Spirit. (Galatians 4:19, 5:22, 23)
The six candlesticks branching off the central stick represents the Christian in union with Christ and fellowship
between Christians.
The candlestick weighed 21 kg [48 lbs]. and was beaten out of one piece of gold. It was very valuable and
shows the preciousness of Christ. The candlestick was fashioned by beating and represents Christ suffering for
the sins of the world. On the top of the centre candlestick they had knops or pomegranates representing the
eternal life and perfection of Christ. There were also almond buds opening up representing Christ being the
fount of all life.
Flowers occurred on all seven candlesticks. The flowers represent the beauty of the character of Christ which
we produce when we are filled with the Spirit. Each lamp had a wick which drew the oil up through the lamps.
The wick has to be soaked in oil before it burns otherwise it emits smoke. Light - divine good or production.
Smoke - human good or production.
Application If the believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit he produces works which are noticeably different
from the unbeliever. If he is controlled by the sinful nature he clouds the issue. The burnt wick represents work
for the Lord Jesus Christ. The priest used to collect the burnt wick and put it in a snuff box. God remembers our
works for Him. (1 Corinthians 3:12-15)
An alternate interpretation of the candlestick likens the seven stems as the seven spirits of God as found in
(Isaiah 11:2, Revelation 1:4). It symbolizes the spirit of the Lord, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the
spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge, and of the fear of the Lord.
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APPLICATION
When the Lord Jesus Christ comes from heaven to remove His church from the earth He will come with a shout, the
voice of the Archangel and the trumpet of God - 1 Thessalonians 4:16.
This will be the voice of Jesus Christ Himself as he raises the saints from the dead.
This is also called the last trumpet in 1 Corinthians 15:52.
The last trumpet is also the feature of the Feast of Trumpets where after 99 trumpet blasts of three different forms the
last trumpet is unique. It was called the last trumpet and identifies the Rapture prophetically with the Feast of Trumpets.
1:13 And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to
the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
When John turned he saw the Jesus he knew and loved in resurrected glory. (Compare Daniel. 7:9-14.) Again,
symbolism is taken from Scripture. Christ wears the garment of the Jewish High Priest.
The workmen wore their belts or girdles around their waist while working so a position around the breast would signify
that his work was complete.
Christ is seen in the centre of the candlesticks or churches. He is at the centre of the Church, as he is the centre of the
Plan and purposes of God from eternity past.
JESUS CHRIST AS KING - PRIEST - PROPHET
PRIESTLY GARMENTS
APPLICATION
We need to consider the Great High Priest as he stands in the midst of the local churches, judging and evaluating them.
The Scriptures tell us that He has three ministries today.
[a] The intercession of Christ [Hebrews 7:25]
[b] The intervention of Christ where he steps outside the Holy Place to the laver. There he washes the feet of those
who are His own, those who have confessed their sins. [1 John 1:9, 2:1]
[c] The ministry of inspection. He is walking in the lampstands. The priest would trim the wicks [c.f. prune the vine -John
15:1-8], put in the oil, and snuff out the candle.
These actions represent the refining of the believer, the provision of the Holy Spirit for power and light and the removal of
the light.
He is the one who pours out the oil which represents the Holy Spirit. He is the One who sent the Holy Spirit. The Holy
Spirit is doing what the Lord Jesus Christ sent Him into the world to do.
Christ as head of the church wants His light to be seen by all through the ministries of the local churches.
Snuffing of the candle represents the sin unto death for the individual and for the individual church.
1:14 His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The white head and hair speak of holiness and dignity according to age (Daniel. 7:9-10);
His flaming eyes reveal the omniscience of God's judgment (Daniel. 10:6; Zechariah 4:10);
The flame of fire talks about the Lord being a refining fire in judgment. John 16:8-11, Revelation 20:10-15.
APPLICATION
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We need to look at the whole character of God and not just his perfect love. He is perfectly holy as well as loving.
While God so loved the world that he gave His Son to save all that believed on Him, the holy wrath of God remains on
those who reject Him. John 3:36.
He also knows everything from beginning to end and is infinitely wise.
He is the one from whom no secrets are hid.
1:15 And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The feet of bronze could allude to the bearer of God’s throne - Ezekiel 1:7 as well as the angel of Daniel 10:6. Fine brass
represents God’s holy judgment upon man’s sin. His feet were seen to be on fire. Our God is a consuming fire. Hebrews
10:30-31, 12:28-29. To receive his kingdom he needs to burn away all that is evil and polluted by sin so that no
imperfection enters it. The brass or brazen altar outside the tabernacle proper represents Christ’s work on earth when he
died on the Cross.
The greatest problem in humanity is to truly accept grace as fallen man always wants to do something. The great battle
for the heart and mind of man centres in this; will man stay with his pride and self satisfaction, or accept God’s grace
provision for his salvation.
APPLICATION
The human nature that man has will purr like a pussy cat when flattered but bristle like an echidna/porcupine when failure
to do a job is noted. It is pride and arrogance that joins man with Satan and if he remains so joined, he must accept
Satan’s fate as his own.
This is the reason that the present position of Christ and His contemporary work of inspection is largely ignored by the
church. People don’t like being audited and inspected, and the Lord’s command to “examine ourselves” lest we be
judged is ignored at our peril. 1 Corinthians 11:28, 2 Corinthians 13:5-6. Also Psalms 4:4, 26:1ff, Proverbs 17:3.
He occupies the position of Judge of the church and does not flatter. He does not ignore what He sees nor shut his eyes
to sin and wrongdoing and he wants us to deal with sin, never ignore it. His constant command to His own is to repent. –
1 John 1:5-10, Revelation 2:5
1:16 And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his
countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The two-edged sword of his mouth is the Word of God (Hebrews. 4:12; Revelation. 19:15).
His shining face is the glory of the "Sun of Righteousness" (Malachi. 4:2).
The mouth could be represented as a weapon, as shown in Isaiah 49:2.
THE SWORD
APPLICATION
This shows that the Lord controls the universe, for he is its creator; the creator of time-space itself.
The Messiah’s just decrees of judgment would be the weapon of his mouth. Isaiah 11:4
You cannot look upon the sun and you certainly would not be able to look on the Creator of the sun, the One who is the
glorified Christ.
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INTERPRETATION AND OUTLINE
Revelation 1:17-20
Though John was "the disciple whom Jesus loved'' (John 21:7), this was not the Jesus he had known "after the flesh" (2
Corinthians 5:16). John's response to the Lord showed something of the reverence we must have for the risen and
glorified Christ instead of our modern and often disgraceful superficial familiarity.
Because of the cross, Jesus holds the key to release the hold of death or to lock the door of hell forever.
This key to man’s fate is belief in Him or rejection resulting in Judgment. We see in verse 19 the book's outline which
must be followed in order to understand its contents.
A.
What you have seen - the vision of Chapter 1.
B.
The things which are - Chapter 2 and 3, The Church Age.
C.
After these things - Chapter 4 through the end of the book. This history follows the Rapture of the Church (4:1).
The 20th verse interprets the symbols of the previous vision, which often happens in the Revelation whenever the
symbols differ from standard Old Testament usage.
The seven stars are “angels" or literally "messengers" (pastors) of the seven churches which are represented by the
seven lampstands.
Jesus walks in the midst of the churches (verse 13) and holds pastors of those churches in His right hand (verse 16). He
must be the central figure of all true churches--and the ultimate authority over every pastor. Every pastor needs to
remember this fact.
1:17 And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear
not; I am the first and the last:
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Terror was common during genuine visions [Genesis 15:12], amongst those who received revelations of God [Ezekiel
1:28] or suddenly see the truth about God. For example Thomas, John 20:24-29.
The appearance of Angels [Daniel 8:18, 10:9,15] in the Old Testament often led to the visited person falling on their
faces unless the revealer touched and strengthened them [Daniel 8:18, 10:10].
The angels and the Lord when he appeared to men often had to assure his servants not to be afraid [Deuteronomy 3:2,
Joshua 8:1, Jeremiah 1:8]. When God genuinely speaks to mankind it is an awesome thing. [Genesis 26:24].
“Fear not” should be translated “stop fearing”, it is a command that indicates the person is in terror/fear at that moment.
Do not jump to 1 John 4:18-19, and say we are to have no fear. At times we will have fear quite rightly, for what we see
is from beyond our frame of reference for thinking. Fear is normal at times, but as believers and children of God, we will
not stay in fear, but rest in God’s love, mercy, grace provision for us, and the joy of fellowship will strengthen us.
APPLICATION
John who had been a close friend of the Lord on earth did not go up and shake His hand but fell at his feet as if dead.
The effect of the vision upon John was nothing short of paralysing. We don’t cuddle the Lord we worship Him.
Even one of the most mature Christians that ever lived had a moment of fear, but with the Lord’s words the fear went.
When we get into the presence of the Lord we will not act in a familiar way, we will fall at His feet.
We should be far more aware of Christ as God and not have a low/casual view of our Creator and Saviour.
To be a friend of Jesus Christ we have to obey Him - John 15:10-14.
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1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell
and of death.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
In the Old Testament and in Jewish literature “the gates of Hades” referred to the realm of the dead and thus the power
of death itself to provoke fear in mankind. Psalm 9:13, 107:18, 68:20, 116:15.
The one who held the keys to these realms thus ruled over them. There is no need to fear the “angel of death” (Satan),
for the Lord defeated him on the Cross and on Resurrection Sunday morning. We share in the gift of eternal life.
The word “Hades” deals with the abode of the dead and was biblically divided into three sections
[a] Torments - the abode of the unbelieving dead,
[b]Tartarus - the prison of fallen angels and
[c] Abraham’s Bosom or Paradise the former residence of the believers prior to the Session of Christ.
Since the glorification of Christ, paradise has been empty, as at that time the Old Testament saints were transferred to
heaven, to where we now go directly when we die. 2 Corinthians 5:8.
THE ROCK AND KEYS
OBEDIENCE OF CHRIST
APPLICATION
Jesus Christ has the keys and has conquered death, and is alive forever more. He therefore has the power over the
timing of the death of all people. Because He lives we shall live also and the gates of hell will not prevail over us.
Those who believe in Him will not be affected by the Second Death, the eternal separation from God.
He is sovereign over the life to come. Christ’s power over death as one who has risen not only encouraged his followers
now facing possible death, but should encourage us all, as we all have to face the possibility of dying. We do not “see
death” as believers, we see Jesus welcoming us into eternity with Him. John 8:51, Acts 7:55-56, 1 Corinthians 13:12…
In verses 17 and 18 the Lord gives four reasons not to fear and we should gain encouragement from them:[a] He is the first and last - He is God
[b] He is the one that lives and was dead - He has conquered death and has been resurrected.
[c] He is alive for evermore - In His humanity He has eternal life
[d] He has the keys of hell - He has power over death, we need not fear death. Psalm 23:4
1:19 Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Prophecy in the Old Testament involved speaking God’s message, and was not thus restricted to predicting the future; it
was foretelling and forth-telling. [1 Corinthians 14]
John is told to write the things that
[a]
He has seen - the glorified Christ - chapter 1
[b]
The things that are - the things pertaining to the church - chapters 2-3
[c]
The things here after - the church in heaven, the Tribulation, Second Advent, Millennium and Eternity future chapters 4-22
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APPLICATION
This gives the outline of the book of the Revelation.
We should be confident that God knows all the detail of His story, both past, present, and future, and so we must rest
upon the truth revealed, and rely upon the Scriptures for our guidance and encouragement. 2 Peter 1:19-21.
The more we know of what the authors of Scripture have written down the more we will be able to discern his will and
relax within its details. At times we will lack direction, but at such times we press our hands more firmly into the one who
carries us through deep waters, and guides us along the narrow and thorn surrounded path. Isaiah 61:3, Nehemiah 8:10.
The Bible is inspired and totally accurate, and we can relax within its truth. 2 Timothy 3:14-17, Hebrews 4:7-13.
1:20 The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks.
The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the
seven churches.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Jewish texts often portrayed angels as stars. [Revelation 12:4]
There are four main views of the “angels” of the churches.
[a] Messengers bearing the scrolls to the churches.
[b] Public readers or preachers in each congregation.
[c] Guardian angels of each congregation.
[d] Representations of the heavenly significance of the churches as with the lampstands.
The stars represent authority. In Jude 13 apostates are called “wandering stars”.
MYSTERY
MINISTERS
APPLICATION
It is clear that if the minister or public reader in the church, or the messenger going to the church, is in view here that God
has them in His right hand. This is a lovely picture that builds upon the previously taught truths.
They are therefore protected and supported as long as they represent Him. We are all in the hand of God, but especially
if we stand for truth and preach the Word we are under the Lord’s special protection. John 10:27-30. In dangerous and
pressure filled places it is the truth of the Word of God that settles our troubled soul and establishes us again in the place
of worship and service.
NOTES
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CHAPTER TWO
THE MESSAGE TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES
INTRODUCTION
As we study the message of Christ to the seven churches, we will do well to keep in mind four
interpretation aids given by Dr. C. I. Scofield; each of which we will utilize.
[a] - Local meaning - these are seven actual churches existing in John's time and to which he ministers.
[b] - General meaning - these conditions may be found in churches throughout this age and this gives us
a key for evaluating a local church by the "mind of Christ" (1 Corinthians 2:16).
[c] - Personal meaning - each message includes the challenge to "Him who overcomes" and "Him who
has an ear." Thus we can evaluate our own lives by this.
[d] - Prophetic meaning - these seven churches are chosen in this order to illustrate church history from
the time of John to the Rapture – the end of the Church Age.
Two major trends are seen running through this message to the churches. These characterize the history
of Christianity through to the time of the Rapture of the Church.
[a] First, there is always a purifying process going on for those who are true believers, the "overcomers"
by faith (1 John 5:4-5). We are being “fired up” in the furnace of affliction and pressures to purify our
metal content – to be made more pure for the Lord’s work. Hebrews 12:6-12.
[b] Second, there is an increasing apostasy of dead human religion. At the Rapture, the body of Christ is
removed, but apostate Christendom goes on to become the "great whore" of Revelation 17.
THE LETTERS TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES
THE CHURCH AGE - Characteristics
CHURCH AT EPHESUS - 2:1-7
The church of Ephesus was founded by the Apostle Paul (Acts 18:18-21, 19:1-20). John came there
having escaped the destruction of Jerusalem and made Ephesus the centre of his circuit ministry.
"Ephesus" means "beloved," yet this church is rebuked for losing its “first love” for Christ. They had many
good works but had fallen from their occupation with the person of Christ; He was no longer their centre
and sole focus for life and work.
Historically as a type, the Church of Ephesus illustrates church history from 35 to 100 A.D.
The warning is to the believer (who is to be an overcomer) who "has an ear" is to use it! This means to
constantly maintain personal fellowship and love for Christ as the greatest spiritual priority. Obviously we
can only love the Living Word by loving and living in the written Word. We show our love for Jesus by love
of his Word, and that means we hear it, believe it and obey it.
The name Ephesus means “Desired”.
2:1 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven
stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Ephesus had been one of the first Roman Empire centres of the Imperial cult and Domitian had allowed
Ephesus the title of “guardian of his temple”. The emperors of this time believed in the Imperial Cult and
required all citizens of the Empire to worship them as the “genius” (spirit of wisdom) of the Empire. This
required an annual burning of a pinch of incense and saying aloud, “Caesar is Lord”. Believers couldn’t do
this, for Jesus alone was their Lord.
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Inscriptions also show that Ephesus had a sizeable Jewish population of which the Christians had been a
sizeable part. [Acts 18:19-20, 26, 19:8-9] Up until this time the Jews were exempt the Imperial Cult, but by
the time of John the Christians were no longer seen as a Jewish sect, and so were not excused this
worship. This period begins the time of cyclical persecutions that will run for another 200 years.
“Saith he” - is typical of the way that the royal edicts of the ancient world was given by messengers who
said: “thus saith the King”.
The description of the Lord Jesus Christ comes from Revelation 1:13, 16, 20.
THE CHURCH
APPLICATION
Here we see the Lord is in the middle of his churches and is holding the messengers or preachers of the
churches in His hand - he is obviously interested and in control. Even in the midst of persecution, He
upholds all who serve and worship him alone. He is our king, and may order us to our death for his name,
just as the human Emperor could order his soldiers to fight to the death. We are in the hands of our king,
for he is our Saviour and our Lord.
2:2 I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which
are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them
liars:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The perfect active indicative form of the Greek verb eido shows that Jesus Christ “knew” of their works in
the past with a result that He still knows them. He operates from perfect knowledge about every detail of
our life, and so his plan for our life is the optimum plan for our eternal glory. All facts are known by the
Lord and all things work together for his glory, and so our prayers need to reflect this reality and not be
complaint lists, or times when we tell the Lord what to do. Romans 8:26-28.
The commendation here is for testing and rejecting false teachers. In Acts 20:29-31 Paul warned the
elders at Ephesus that false teachers would come in and cause havoc in the church. They had held to the
truth, proclaimed the truth, and rejected all who opposed or distorted it. They did not allow any false
teachers to upset the faith of the young believers in the churches, for they saw it as it is, the best tool of
satanic attack to neutralize any church.
By the time that Paul wrote the books of 1 and 2 Timothy, the false teachers had arrived and were causing
corruption in the church. [1 Timothy 1:3-4,18-20, 6:3-10,20-21 2 Timothy 2:14-18, 4:1-4]. Standing against
falsehood is a basic requirement of all biblical leadership.
In the ancient world the rhetorical experts, the teachers of professional public speaking, recommended
that speakers mixed praise and blame for their hearers to avoid closing them to the message whilst also
avoiding flattery. Artfulness was more important than truth to the ancients, but truth was to prevail in the
churches and things were to be said bluntly to encourage and focus the people upon Jesus alone.
APOSTLESHIP
APPLICATION
The Lord Jesus Christ commends the church at Ephesus for rejecting the false teachers who had
infiltrated the church by testing them. We need to guard our church against false practice and teaching on
the basis of what the Scripture tells us. Jude 3
There are no people alive today with the Biblical gift of Apostleship, for none can possibly fulfil the biblical
requirements. With the apostles as our example, we should be willing to work for the Lord whole heartedly
to the point of exhaustion in the Lord’s service. We will be tired in the work at times, but never tired of it.
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2:3 And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not
fainted.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the church at Ephesus has been diligent; it has persevered and not given up.
Patience is one of the visible evidences of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in a life.
Here in contrast with the previous verse they are not weary, but have drawn strength as they advance.
For His names sake they were bearing the Cross. They preached Christ, believed sound doctrine and
have paid the price for it when required without complaint.
APPLICATION
We may become weary because of the work but we should never be weary of the work. It is tragic if we
are weary of the work. He will encourage and strengthen us if we confess our slackness and then persist
in our call.
We should bear the cross and defend the truth even if it means persecution or death.
2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The condemnation is that they have lost their first love; referring to their love for Christ and His Word. The
second generation of believers have become slack and cold and have not retained the fervour of the first
generation.
A similar problem is seen in those who received the book of Hebrews who as a second generation of
Jewish believers had become lax in their attitude and lost their first love. Hebrews 3:7 – 4:11.
APPLICATION
We should maintain our love of the Lord Jesus Christ and be passionate in obedience to the Word, with a
close and constant walk in fellowship with him by means of prayer.
Holding sound doctrine and perseverance in spiritual tasking is evidence of love for the Lord. [1
Corinthians 13:1-3] Love for the brethren is also characterised by these things. 1 John 4-5.
2:5 Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I
will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the Ephesian believers are urged to remember their first love, repent, and return to passionate
service.
The Greek tenses are of interest here showing the accuracy of Alexander the Great’s Koine Greek. The
verse commences with a command to “remember now” [present tense = with permanent results] from
where [perfect tense] in the past they had fallen from, and they are commanded [aorist tense, imperative
mood] in this point of time to repent, or change their mind/behaviour.
They are then commanded to do their “first works” [Imperative mood] or Christ will come, and then at some
point in the future remove their candlestick. The Lord will close the church down except they repent, which
Christ sees as a possibility [subjunctive mood], perhaps they will repent or maybe they will not, it is up to
them. They must decide and act, walk in the Spirit, and bear the fruit of the Spirit, or they will be removed.
Failure to get back to producing things of value will lead to the removal of the witness of the church.
Eventually only a village remained of what was once mighty Ephesus several kilometres from the original
site. Due to silt deposits it was already beginning to lose its geographical importance as a coastal city in
John’s Day, and today it is no more. Its candle stick is snuffed out, as are many once powerful churches
today, that are now warehouses or community halls. We are either effective light towers in dark places, or
we are replaced. Matthew 5:14-16.
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REPENTANCE
MEMORIES
APPLICATION
If we have lost our first love we need to follow the road of recovery. The road of recovery involves
remembrance, repentance, and a passionate return to “first acts of love” for Christ.
If we still have sufficient residual doctrine we can recover from a backslidden condition.
If we are alive there is always time to come back, but only if we repent and obey the Word.
2:6 But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Note Satan's attempt to infiltrate the church through the Nicolaitans. The Greek word comes from Niko (to
conquer) and Laos (the people). The Nicolaitans from the meaning of the Greek sought to rule the people.
They may flow from the work of an early apostate, Nicholas of Antioch, but we cannot be sure.
This attempted establishment of a church hierarchy which distinguished between clergy and laity was
repulsed in the first century but became the norm in later centuries. Today congregational government can
equally destroy a church, as people seek a comfortable place rather than a spirit filled place of service.
Other sources state that this group was a sect set up by Nicholas, one of the first people with the
responsibility of a deacon, who introduced into the church both hierarchy, and joint meetings with pagans.
The Ephesians hated compromise with truth and the Lord Jesus Christ commended them for this attitude.
Only spirit filled service is acceptable service, and there is to be no compromise with the works of men.
APPLICATION
From this verse we see that whether it is fraternising with the pagan or heretical groups, the setting up of a
special clergy and laity, or a congregational form of government that makes “majority rule” the way to lead
the church, that the Lord despises such things and condemns them.
Christian unity is not obtained from fellowship with false religious groups who may call themselves
Christians, as true doctrine will be compromised, and we will not then be the salt of the earth. We are all
believer priests and have access to our heavenly Father through prayer and do not need to go through
intermediary priests, but we must be led by spirit filled elders, not swayed by religious politicians.
2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that
overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The letters are addressed to churches as a whole but the promises are to individual biblically minded
believers. They are the overcomers, for they overcome temptations to compromise by holding to truth.
“Overcometh” is a participle. All participles in the Greek have cases. This one is in the dative case; it is the
dative of advantage. It is an advantage to be an overcomer, to be faithful and eternally secure. It is a
present participle which means that the action of the verb goes on forever. It is in the active voice, we are
eternally secure; It is a participle that shows that God does this work with everybody who “overcomes” by
faith. The concept of overcoming is given in 1 John 5:4, 5, where it is shown that the overcomer is the
person who believes in Christ, that is all genuinely born again believers.
The promise to the overcomer is that he will eat from the fruit of the tree of life which is in the paradise of
God. The tree of life shows a restoration of the conditions that Adam and Eve enjoyed in paradise; that is
full and sweet fellowship with God. [Genesis 2:9, 2 Corinthians 12:2-4]
Each of these prophecies have their complete fulfilment for saved mankind in Revelation 21-22.
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Eating with someone represents fellowship. We are meant to be feeding on the Word with the Father in
prayer, the Holy Spirit as our teacher, and the Lord as our Saviour and King.
Application
We are overcomers from the point of salvation onwards because of what the Lord Jesus Christ has done
for us. From the point of salvation we remain eternally secure. We are to live and serve in the excitement
and joy of that great position that His Blood has bought for us. As an overcomer, we will have eternal
fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ in heaven, and that fellowship has begun here and now. Let us
embrace its reality now and draw closer to Him in our prayer, bible study and service.
NOTES
CHURCH AT SMYRNA – 2:8-11
''Smyrna'' means ''myrrh'', which was a gum or resin that was crushed to give off a fragrance. Myrrh was
also used in embalming the dead. [John 19:39-40] This church was persecuted and suffered greatly.
Christ greets them as the one "who was dead, and has come to life." This financially poor church was rich
in God's sight, for they were faithful in spite of suffering, slander, and death. They are promised the
"crown of life" (James. 1:12).
Note here Satan's two-fold attack of external persecution and internal infiltration by legalistic Jews whom
Christ calls the "synagogue of Satan." One of the great martyrs of Smyrna was the Pastor Polycarp who
was a student of the Apostle John. He was burned at the stake and won the crown of life.
Historically, Smyrna represents church history from 100 to 300 A. D., a period of great persecution by
Rome. At this time Christianity was despised by the world as a collection of ragged, poor, and deluded
people, yet they were rich before God.
When we come to Laodicea, we find a large, rich, respected church that is naked in God's sight. Is there
any question as to where we are today? Let us be challenged to stand with our spiritual ancestors in truth,
fellowship and holy power.
2:8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last,
which was dead, and is alive;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
He tells the church that he is the first and the last and that He Himself died and lived again. Although He
died violently, He nevertheless lived again because of the resurrection. It is in this power that he rules and
leads them, and the reality of resurrection is theirs also.
Together with Philadelphia, the only other church of the seven mentioned not to be criticised at all, Smyrna
held out longest against the Turks so that its lampstand shone far longer than its more politically important
but less spiritually powerful neighbours.
One of the oldest and most prominent cities in the Roman province of Asia, Smyrna sought but failed to
achieve political honour equal to that of Ephesus in this period but failed. What the city council failed to do
the believers did achieve eternally in their devotion to the Lord.
DEATH
CAUSES OF DEATH
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APPLICATION
Many of the people who first heard these words were also to die violent deaths. The description of the
Lord as the one who was raised from the dead would be a source of comfort to them as well as us, as we
can know, because He has been raised all believers will be raised.
Faithfulness in witness, through passionate commitment to the Lord and His Word, even if it is under
persecution, will be more effective than the power of people with glamour and wealth.
2:9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of
them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
People were betrayed to officials by “delators”; official informers who were paid a “bounty” for all evidence
backed betrayals, and by the second century history states that Christians in Asia Minor were only
charged if accused by such informers. Sadly by the early second century the Jews in Smyrna were said to
be fulfilling this role against Christians such as Bishop Polycarp.
The church at Smyrna is commended for its patience in sufferings and for enduring the blasphemy of
those who claim to be Jews but rejected the Lord Jesus as their Messiah, and expressed such hatred
towards the Christians that they betrayed them to death in the arena.
In church history this passage may also refer to the Imperial Cult of the Roman officials, who considered
themselves to be the people of God with the emperor being a god himself. The Christians were therefore
being persecuted by those claiming to be the people of God, but were not. Christians were often killed on
the grounds that they refused to sacrifice to the emperor, and the Jewish synagogues sadly led the way in
this. They would pay a terrible price later for their evil work, as would the Romans.
.
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
APPLICATION
God knows our works and our motivation. He knows the pressure we come under, and that it is for our
spiritual benefit as we draw upon spiritual resources to resist. - 1 Corinthians 10:13
Those who are with the Lord in a suffering situation can be rich spiritually, as they draw on His spiritual
power, as is seen in the spiritual life of the persecuted churches in Russia and China in recent years.
In order to discern many satanic concepts and their danger to your life you need to have a very good
knowledge of God’s Word.
2;10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you
into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death,
and I will give thee a crown of life.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The exhortation comprises three things:[a]
They are urged not to fear the things that they are about to suffer. The pressure they are going
to be under is one of almost permanent persecution.
[b]
They are warned that they are going to be persecuted ten days. Ten emperors persecuted
them during the period 96-313 AD. They were Domitian [96], Trajan [98-117], Hadrian [117-138], Antonius
Pius [138-161], Marcus Aurelius [161-180], Septimus Severus [193-211], Maximin [235-238], Decius [249251], Valarian [251-260], Diocletian [284-305]. These are the ten days of persecution; the last being the
most vicious and the most efficient.
[c]
They are told not to fear death for if they die as martyrs they shall secure the crown of life.
It should be noted that in the ancient world prison was a place of holding a person prior to trial so that
being placed in prison would simply be a step along the path to final execution.
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REWARDS AND SALVATION
APPLICATION
The Lord is all knowing and knows trials that we go through. We should therefore adopt the attitude of
trusting in the Lord, in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God concerning you. We should realise
that fear is lack of faith; thankfulness is the expression of faith. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
The Christian life is going to be a mixture of sunshine and shadow. We are in the devil’s world and are not
necessarily going to be happy all the time although we can have true joy in Him at all times.
2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh
shall not be hurt of the second death.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Although they might die violently they should not fear the second death. Revelation 20:11-15.
The second death is eternal separation from God.
There are a number of “deaths” in the Scriptures.
a)
Physical death - is the separation of the soul from the body. (Genesis 35:18).
b)
Spiritual death - is separation from God, having no relationship with God. (Ephesians 2:1,12, Genesis 2:17,3:8)
c)
The second death - this is the Great White Throne judgment followed by the lake of fire for unbelievers separation from the presence of God, punished forever. (Revelation 20:12-15, 21:8)
d)
Positional death - Christians are identified with Jesus Christ in His death (separation from sin) and in His
resurrection (living in righteousness). Romans 6:3-14 Colossians 2:12-14
e)
Sexual death - inability to procreate. (Romans 4:17-21, Hebrews 11:11-12)
f)
Operational death - faith without works is non operational. (James 2:26)
g)
Temporal death - a carnal believer, out of fellowship with God is “dead” while he lives (Romans 8:6-8,13,
Ephesians 5:14, 1 Timothy 5:6, James 1:15, Revelation 3:1)
HOLY SPIRIT AS COMFORTER
APPLICATION
Those who are Christians who die will not be subject to the Second Death, the Last Judgment - Revelation
20 :11-15
This is therefore a statement for eternal security. The person who believes in Christ is eternally saved, and
in time that assurance of salvation is to work out in the life in grateful service for the Lord..
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CHURCH AT PERGAMOS - VERSES 12-17
"Pergamos" is a compound word meaning "thoroughly married," Pergamos was a rich, influential city of
Asia Minor yet the church was worldly. She is greeted by Him "who has the sharp two-edged sword," the
Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). They needed to “let the Word” loose amongst them to be restored to life.
This church was attacked by three heresies and permitted the infiltration of the latter two while making a
stand against the first.
[a]
Satan had set up his throne here. We find that the teachings of the Babylonian mysteries were
actually carried to Pergamos about 133 BC These teachings began in ancient Babylon and would in time
become so assimilated by apostate Christianity as to become "Mystery Babylon." Pergamos was the
centre of Caesar worship. They had resisted this worship unto death.
[b]
The doctrine of Balaam had gained a foothold (Numbers. 22-25). This was basically a teaching
of compromise with the world. It was a prosperity gospel that magnified wealth as a sign of spirituality.
Balaam, for money, taught Israel to sin with the heathen; thus a "marriage" of the church and the world.
[c]
The Nicolaitans, who were repulsed by Ephesus, were accepted in Pergamos. What begins in
apostasy as "deeds" develops into "doctrines" which in time becomes "denominations" and political
religion. They accepted compromise with a works based religion and with hierarchy.
In contrast, the overcomers will receive the "hidden manna", or deep things of Christ (John 6:31-33;
Colossians 1:26), and the "white stone", representing the vote of approval from God. Even in the midst of
compromise with evil there are those who stand against it, and they are kept by God and praised.
Historically, Pergamos represents church history from 300 to 500 A.D. Constantine made Christianity a
state religion which intermingled it with the heathen practices of ancient Rome. Pagans joined the church
to achieve political power and influence in the State, not because they loved Jesus.
During the period of this apostate union, Damasus I, the Bishop of Rome (366-384), was given the title of
Supreme Pontiff so that the Roman church was placed above all other churches, with Alexandria placed
second, and Antioch third. Therefore, Satan's program to assimilate the church through infiltration took a
great step forward. This was the age of heresy, yet even here there were overcomers who stood against
the tide and died a martyr’s death.
2:12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp
sword with two edges;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Pergamos meaning thoroughly married represents the third predominant type of Church, the merger of
State and Church which occurred after the victory of Constantine, when in 313 he made Christianity an
official recognized state religion of the Roman Empire. Within a few years Christianity became the only
recognized religion and pagans were persecuted.
The church became married to the state and people from throughout the Roman Empire were baptised
into the church without any regard to personal faith. It is a fatal thing to the spiritual life of a church to join it
to the State or politics in any way. We are to be the “salt of the world”, not the friends of the world.
Matthew 5:13, James 4:4. The world system of politics wants to use believers, not be used by them for
godly work.
Pergamum is about 90 kilometres north-east from Smyrna. It was situated on a lofty hill and was a great political and
religious centre. Eumenes II (197-159 BC ) extended it and embellished it with many great buildings, including a library
with 200,000 volumes. As such it was second only to Alexandria in status and influence. The Kingdom of Pergamum
became a Roman province 130 BC. Pliny termed it the most illustrious city of Asia. It was a rival of Ephesus in the
temples to Zeus, Athena, and Dionysos, and in the great grove, the Nicephorium (the glory of the city).
Next to this was the grove and temple of Asklepios, the god of healing, called the god of Pergamum, with
an attached university for medical study. Pergamum was also the first city in Asia to have a temple for the
worship of “the divine Augustus” (Octavius Caesar). It was the temple here that gave the Romans the idea
for Emperor Worship as the religious glue to hold together the many pagan religions of the empire.
The picture of the Lord Jesus Christ is taken from Revelation 1:16 and is one of judgment based on the
Word of God. [Hebrews 4:12] They have chosen political and cultural acceptance by men, and have not
seen that the acceptance and praise of men is temporary and pointless. Only Jesus’ opinion matters!
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APPLICATION
Church and state should remain separate and independent of each other as a marriage of this type ends
with the church being infiltrated by political intrigue. The Word of God is not only of value for doctrine but
for reproof and exhortation. The Scriptures are the yard stick for our actions and is totally accurate in the
defining of God’s plans and standards for our Christian life.
We should be spiritual and not walk as the unsaved valuing politics and money. [1 Corinthians 3:1-3]
We can do this by being controlled by the Holy Spirit [Galatians 5:16-18], and valuing Jesus above all else.
2:13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast
my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr,
who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Pergamum was a major city of idolatry with many temples one of which was that to Asclepius the serpentson god of healing. It was also a centre of Emperor Worship. This may be why Satan’s throne is referred
to in the letter to this church. Emperor Worship was the main satanic attack at that time, and this will be
satanic policy again in the last days. In the Great Tribulation period the Anti-Christ will demand worship of
himself.
It is noted that the word for seat is “thronos” which can be translated throne. This was a centre for Satanic
worship, but because it centred in the healing arts many thought it was safe. It was socially and
academically acceptable worship and it was satanic all the same. It is also of interest that both those of
Pergamos and Satan had “settled down” - “katoikeo” here. The believers had become comfortable in their
compromises.
The name Antipas means “against all” which may mean that he stood against all satanic worship. The war
against their faith was being waged by satanic opposition, he saw it, and was honoured by God for this.
RELIGION - SATAN’S SYSTEM
APPLICATION
God is all knowing and knows our works and what our motivation is. [1 Corinthians 3:11-15].
He knew that Antipas, the faithful martyr, would be killed unfairly yet allowed that to happen.
He will not however allow a Christian to be tested above what they are able to bear. [1 Corinthians 10;13]
Are we mature enough to suffer for the Lord? Antipas was, and he received eternal reward and honour.
Would we deny the Lord if members of our church were being martyred?
What happens to believers is for the glory of God and according to his plan.
It is possible for Christians to function and witness even though they are surrounded with evil.
2:14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of
Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things
sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
We notice that this church had a number of people that held heretical views. It is seen that the word “hast”
is the word “echo” which means “to have and to hold”, indicating that they were welcome in the church at
Pergamum. The word to teach is in the imperfect mood which means Balaam kept on teaching Balak
about the trap to ensnare the people of Israel. Balaam in Numbers 22-24 was a seer of Mesopotamia who
was hired by Balak, the king of Moab to pronounce a curse on the Israelites.
He was unable to curse the Israelites but told Balak a means of getting many of the men of Israel out of
fellowship by using their young women to entice them into sexual immorality and pagan fertility cult
religion. Balak was successful in this ploy, many Israelites died as a result, and Balaam was rewarded with
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huge riches. Events caught up with Balaam and he was killed by Israel, and the enemy defeated, but
great suffering was caused by his falsehoods.
The teaching of Balaam was to encourage corruption by means of inter marriage or fornication resulting in
idolatry. He did it for no other reason than to be famous and wealthy. In Pergamum intermarriage between
the believers and pagans was a real problem. In addition, because social life was so intertwined,
acceptance of some social engagements meant some involvement in paganism.
Many believers therefore became compromised. Their error was to see their wealth as evidence that they
were right in their compromises. Like Balaam they had made money, power and social status evidence of
spiritual status; they were wrong, and their fate would ultimately be the same as Balaam. Material
Prosperity is not a spiritual sign of anything. The richest men are not the most spiritual!
BAALAM
SIN UNTO DEATH
APPLICATION
Has the Lord Jesus Christ a few things against us as individuals or as a church? Do we hold heretical
concepts or have perverted the Scriptures to satisfy our own lusts, or to compromise with the world we live
in? The more we know of the Scriptures as working knowledge, “epignosis”, the more we will be able to
judge ourselves and correct ourselves to conform to His plan, rather than conform to this world. Romans
12:1-2.
Serious betrayal of the Lord’s plan or His people is likely to result in the sin unto death. Even though evil
people look as if they have won at times, God will judge the ungodly in His time and that judgment is sure.
Have we become compromised by our social interaction with pagans. Be not unequally yoked together in
marriage or business. It is all right to say “No” [2 Corinthians 6:14]. Be discerning and walk in the Spirit.
2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Nicolaitains were the group which the church at Ephesus was commended for not accepting but these
heretics were accepted at Pergamum. There are several views on who this group was:One concept is that they were a pagan group which was accepted for combining with the church at
ecumenical worship services. The other derived from the name which promoted the development of the
politicizing of church government, emphasizing the importance of hierarchy, which also corrupted the
church.
During this period both errors came into being and diluted the spiritual power of the church.
SPIRITUAL GIFTS
APPLICATION
It is very important with whom we socialise or have close relationships with. We are not to be “unequally
yoked” in any close fellowship with pagans, or corrupt believers. 2 Corinthians 6:14. We must be linked
with people who are “pulling the same weight”, or we will not plough the field of God as He intends. Apart
from the grace gift given to us to function in the body of Christ there is no difference or distinction to all in
the body of Christ - [ Galatians 3:26-29]. The only celebrity is the Lord, and so service of the Lord is not
about our status or respect from men, but love and service for the Lord.
The Lord hates false doctrines and perversion of the Word of God, as well as perverse use of the Word.
Satan can be known by his fruits, and a dilution of the power of the Word and a moving away from Holy
Spirit filled service are clear fruits of satanic philosophies at work in the now compromised church.
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2:16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my
mouth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word repent is “metanoeo” which means to change your mind. The sword of his mouth is a reference
to the command/words of the Lord. Do not live in denial; let the Lord judge your life. 2 Corinthians 13:5.
The sword of the mouth is also seen in Revelation 19:15 which says, “And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that
with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the
fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.”
The fighting is seen to be in the future active indicative indicating the reality of the fighting if the Christians
at Pergamos do not repent. They have limited time to obey the Lord’s command.
APPLICATION
If we have heresies or sin in our life we need to repent and confess, “homologeo”, our sins so that He will
not need to judge us. 1 John 1:5-10. Homologeo is a compound Greek verb made up of “homo” meaning
the same, and “logeo” meaning to speak. Literally we are told to “speak the same as God does about our
sin”. We are to agree with God about our sin, confess it, forsake it, and turn to righteousness.
This is of vital importance in relation to the Lord’s Table where strict instructions are given in 1 Corinthians
11:23-31. “If we judge ourselves we will not be judged.” Failure to deal with sin leads to judgment in time,
and may even involve the SIN UNTO DEATH.
2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that
overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone
a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word used for stone “psephos” means a small stone which was used in the voting system of the
ancient world rather than “lithos” which is the normal word for stone. This is the only time that the word
“psephos” is used in the Scriptures.
The promise is threefold - the overcomer will eat of the hidden manna, will be given a white stone (the
stone used to vote for acquittal in an ancient court) and also be given a new name. The old guilty self is
replaced by a new identity in Christ Jesus through grace by faith.
We notice that the white stone has a name written on it from the past with results that go on in the future
as shown by the perfect tense of the word grapho. The manna or provision is also hidden provision from
the past indicating pre-knowledge by the Lord. The Lord’s provision for us is perfect, and it is from eternity
past. The new name shows a permanent position and possession by the overcomer.
MANNA
APPLICATION
Manna - The person leaving the State church might be deprived of his job and welfare. In spite of what he
is deprived of, God will provide his sustenance. We are to trust in the Lord not any pension fund.
In the ancient Jewish and Greco-Roman world the form of voting was by using pebbles, the black one
meaning disapproval/guilt while the white one meant approval/acquittal.
The voting by God using a white stone here shows the overcomer will be acquitted of the guilt of that
church, and it will be a mark of his acceptance with Christ. He receives a New Name – this shows spiritual
blessing will be given to him - cf Abram - Genesis 17:1-8, Jacob - Genesis 32:22-32
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CHURCH AT THYATIRA - VERSES 18-29
The Son of God greets this church with flaming eyes and feet of judgment.
Though there is some approval given the church in verse 19, the church has become a haven for
"Jezebel," apparently an actual woman of this physical church who became prominent as a teacher and
led people into idolatry and immorality.
Though God in grace gave her time to repent she would not. She is a preview of the "great whore"
(Revelation 17) and so she will be cast into great tribulation along with her children, i.e., apostate
Christendom.
Even in Thyatira some remained faithful (verses 24-29). They were instructed to hold fast to truth and
were promised great authority in Christ's kingdom for standing against the usurped authority of this
Jezebel. They will be decorated with the "Morning Star," the reflected glory of Jesus Christ (c.f. Daniel
12:3; 2 Peter 1:19).
Historically, Thyatira, which means "continual offering," speaks of the age of Romanism (500 to 1500
A.D.). In Romanism, the once for all sufficiency of the cross was denied being replaced by a continual
offering of works, penance, and sacraments as a means of salvation.
Just as the Jezebel figure will not repent, neither will this system of idolatry, and as the Babylon of the
future she will be judged. (Jeremiah. 51:8-9; Revelation. 18:4). The "deep things of Satan" are the
Babylonian teachings which infiltrated and were perpetuated by the Medieval Roman church. Even within
this structure there were many who were “saints”, not “aints”, and they have the orders to follow – to love
the Lord and heed His Word, irrespective of what the structure teaches officially.
2:18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who
hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The destination in this verse is the church at Thyatira which means, “continual or perpetual sacrifice”.
In the Medieval Roman Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox church the Mass perpetuated the sacrifice of
Christ believing the bread and wine were changed by the priest into the true body and blood of the Lord
Jesus Christ. It was as if the Lord was being sacrificed again and again, every day, rather than once for all
time. The priesthood had the power to give or with hold the sacrifice from people.
As a result of this “sacramental” viewpoint, with the priesthood being a special hierarchy of grace, the laity
were given only the bread, when they were “approved”, as it was feared that the wine or true blood of
Christ might be spilt. The wine was reserved for the clergy and this therefore perpetuated the division of
laity and clergy, and the power of the clergy. Instead of grace being open to mankind, it was channelled
through the hierarchy to those they “approved”.
The picture of Christ comes from Revelation 1:14-15 and is one of judgment. Fire and brass picture the
brazen altar in the Tabernacle, the altar of judgment.
THE DEITY OF CHRIST
APPLICATION
The name Thyatira reflects the next section of Church history, the millennium between 500 and 1500 AD
where the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Church was dominant with their shared doctrine of the
continual sacrifice of the Mass. The power of the clergy to give the wafer or withhold it gave them power
over the eternal salvation of the people.
Christ is the son of God and it is him only that we must worship. He freely gives grace to all who come to
him, and no priest or clergy must ever get in the way of the free gift of salvation to all who will bow before
the Lord. Even in the midst of this evil work of some of the clergy, there were great saints who served and
ministered to the Lord in grace, mercy and love.
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2:19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and
the last to be more than the first.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the genuine believers in the midst of the apostate church are commended for their works of love,
faith, and ministry, and it is noted that these works are increasing towards the end of the period. The word
patience should be translated endurance. Many within the Medieval Roman Catholic and Orthodox Church
remained true to the Word and the Lord, and ministered faithfully to the truths of grace, mercy and love.
They showed endurance in the midst of growing political-spiritual apostasy.
The word “know” is in the perfect active indicative which shows that Jesus Christ knew of these things in
the past and provided for all who held the truth through these dark days. This period was indeed, the “Dark
Ages” for many, and yet many great believers shine like lights in the darkness all through these years.
Refer to the EBCWA Church History/Chronology Course notes to examine this period and the others
covered by the seven churches.
Application
Are our works of love, faith, and other Christian graces increasing or decreasing? It is by the “Fruit of the
Holy Spirit” that we are truly known as children of God and servants of Christ. Matthew 7:13-23.
We should remember that Jesus Christ knew all our problems in the past, and will supply the means of
using the Christian life for us to be able to face adversity. This is the application of the doctrine of the
CHARACTER OF GOD to our role in time; God must have provided all we will ever need for the Plan He
has selected for us. He has ensured we have all we will ever need to achieve all that he requires of us.
Have we exhibited endurance under pressure? We can endure because we rest in his provisions for us,
knowing he knows all our needs and in eternity past provided them for us.
2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman
Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit
fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The condemnation covers verses 20-23 with verses 20-21 concerning a woman called Jezebel.
It is conceivable that there was a person called Jezebel in the church at Thyatira, but it is more likely that
the name was used to describe the situation that the church was in, as was the case of using Balaam in
connection with the church at Pergamum. Jezebel was a princess from Sidon who became the wife of
Ahab the King of Israel [1 Kings 16:29-33]. She brought gross moral corruption into the northern kingdom
with her introduction of the sexualized worship of the fertility god Baal and his female counterpart.
She was seen as a very attractive and beautiful woman but one steeped in evil. Corruption had started in
the northern kingdom under its first king Jeroboam I after the dividing of the kingdom after the death of
Solomon. Jeroboam had perverted the true worship of God and set up a golden calf in Dan and Bethel. [1
Kings 12:25-33] but she brought in more evil things still with her evil gods in the form of the fertility gods
Baal and Ashtoreth. Their worship was with total sexual immorality in its rituals.
The aorist, active, infinitives, of the verbs translated “committing fornication” and “eating meat” offered to
idols shows the purpose of the false teaching, which was to encourage believers to participate in pagan
religion. Satan wants believers to compromise and so enter false rituals and defile themselves with sexual
immorality.
APPLICATION
We have to be careful that we do not compromise the truth on the basis of embracing corruption brought
into the church by attractive people whose intentions are evil. We should not allow our judgment to be
perverted because the person who is proposing it is attractive, intelligent and/or cultured.
All practices need to be tested against the Scriptures to see if they are in accordance with what the Holy
Spirit “once and for all” gave to the church [Jude 3]. Nothing is to be decided by “niceness” only by truth!
Jezebel became a very real picture of what the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches evolved into during the
medieval times. There was gross immorality, lusts of all sorts and political intrigue at the heart of both structures. In the
East this was swept away with the Turkish invasions around the 1450s, and in the West by the Reformation.
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This “Jezebel spirit” introduced a new paganism that resulted in idolatry and spiritual fornication, and became a new
religious system bearing little resemblance to the New Testament church, but in the midst of it good people still served
the Lord and brought glory to His Holy Name.
ROMAN CATHOLIC TRADITIONS THAT GREW UP IN THIS PERIOD
Over the thousand years covered by this period the increasing number of traditions were enacted which enslaved the
people to the organized Church. The most important ones are listed below.
[1]
Title of Pope [universal bishop]
BONIFACE III
607
[2]
Kissing the Pope's foot
CONSTANTINE
709
[3]
Temporal power of Popes given by Pipin
STEPHEN III
755
[4]
Worship of cross, images and relics
HADRIAN I
786
[5]
Holy water blessed by a priest
LEO IV
850
[6]
Worship of St.Joseph
STEPHEN VI
890
[7]
College of Cardinals established
JOHN X
927
[8]
Baptism of bells
JOHN XIII
965
[9]
Canonisation of dead saints
JOHN XV
995
[10]
Fasting on Fridays during Lent
GREGORY V
998
[11]
Celibacy of the priesthood.
GREGORY VII
1079
[12]
The Rosary - Peter the Hermit
URBAN II
1090
[13]
The Inquisition
LUCIUS III
1184
[14]
Sale of Indulgencies
CLEMENT III
1190
[15]
Transubstantiation
INNOCENT III
1215
[16]
Confession to a priest not God
INNOCENT III
1215
[17]
Adoration of the wafer [host]
HONORIUS III
1220
[18]
Bible forbidden to laymen.
GREGORY IX
1239
[19]
The scapular invented by Simon Stock
INNOCENT IV
1251
[20]
Cup forbidden to the people at communion
GREGORY XII
1414
[21]
Purgatory proclaimed as a dogma.
EUGENE IV
1439
[22]
Ave Maria
JULIUS II
1508
2:21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Repent here is “metanoeo” - meta - to change, noeo - the mind and the behaviours.
This is in contrast with the word “metamelamai” which indicates feeling sorry for oneself which is also
translated repent, but involves no change of mind or behaviour. Often it simply means, “I am sorry that I
was caught”.
There was a possibility that she would repent, as given in the subjunctive mood, but it was not her
intention shown by the infinitive mood of the second use of “metanoeo” in this verse. Sadly the corrupt
leadership of the political entities and the Popes/Patriarchs meant there was to be no change.
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APPLICATION
It is noted that God even gave in grace the “Jezebel system” a time to change her mind about the false
prophetic doctrines. This may indicate that Jezebel was a believer who had gone into serious error and
was given time to repent before judgment was applied by God, or it may be that she was simply a religious
unbeliever. This may also apply to the increasingly pagan Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox
Medieval Churches.
We need to judge ourselves so that we will not be judged. Those who did through this time were saved
and served the Lord, and are honoured in heaven today. The so called “princes” of the organized church
of these dark days will be awaiting judgment in Hell itself for the evils they did not repent of. Many true
saints of the Lord tried to reform the Medieval Church and paid with their lives. Isaiah 14:9-11.
2:22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great
tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Cast - ballo - to throw from which we get our word ball. The actual tense is a futuristic present which
indicates that judgment of this church is close to the time of warning. With each of the evil Popes of this
period there was a warning given, and soon after it, they perished under judgment.
This is reinforced with the fact that the call for repentance is in the aorist tense. They have limited time.
The source of their judgment symbolically is also the source of their sin with the bed of adultery the place
of judgment. The sin is more a spiritual sin but is deadly as far as the church is concerned.
ADULTERY
APPLICATION
Here we see the woman cast into “great tribulation” which does indicate that the Roman Catholic Church
(with all its genuine believers removed), along with all “organized” but spiritually powerless churches, will
play a significant role in the Great Tribulation. The “Great Whore” later described is not just Medieval
Catholicism, and eastern Orthodoxy, it is simply apostate “Christendom”, and involves all who hold the
form of Christianity, but deny the power and truth of it. 2 Timothy 3:1-9.
Remember that in God’s sight there are no Roman Catholics or Protestants, only Holy Spirit filled genuine
believers, or religious unbelievers.
Again we see that the Lord does not want to discipline those who are out of line but wishes for them to
repent. [Jeremiah 23:22-23] All who do are saved, delivered and serve Him with honour and eternal
reward. Only those who stay within apostasy are judged.
2:23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which
searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The children of Jezebel will suffer physical violence and death as part of God’s judgment on the Jezebel
system of false religion.
The Lord will reward people for their spiritual works. It is possible to do good works but not receive the
approval of God because they are undertaken in the power of the sinful nature. They are considered to be
filthy rags in the sight of God. Isaiah 64:6. Those who follow after sin and evil will receive its rewards!
The Lord being all knowing is able to rightly assess the performance of individuals and churches as a
whole.
APPLICATION
The purpose for the judgment on the children of Jezebel is that the glory of God and his All Knowing
Characteristic can be seen.
The Lord knows our motivation. God will use the unbeliever to show His glory – eg, The Pharaoh of Egypt,
and the battle of Armageddon.
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In Revelation 17 the judgment of this false religious system is graphically shown. If we are associated with
gross distortions of the truth we will be disciplined; if we refuse to repent we will be judged.
2:24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and
which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The exhortation involves those who have no part in the Jezebel system and do not know the depths of
Satan for they have walked away from her compromises and followed Christ.
Mystery cults stressed deep secrets shared only among the initiates. It creates an apostate “in group” and
the excluded genuine believers who are persecuted.
The doctrine of Jezebel is seen as very serious as it separates those who will and will not be disciplined.
There is a promise of no further pressures coming on the believers as they rest in Him - Acts 15:28-29.
APPLICATION
The Lord can place burdens on us but He has told us that he will not test us more than we can bear. - 1
Corinthians 10:13. The Lord will not tolerate believers having other gods. Exodus 20:3. There is to be no
compromise with fake spirituality and compromising religious systems.
2:25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
They are told to hold fast to what is pure and true.
They are commanded to hold to the New Testament truth rather than the counterfeit religious traditions
and doctrines of the Jezebel system.
The subjunctive mood shows the potential of the Lord coming to the church to judge or bless. He will do
both, and our choice of our spiritual positioning will determine which side we are on.
APPLICATION
The Lord restates that he is coming back for his church, this will occur at the Rapture, and the saved of
this time start to remember this doctrine again after 1000 years of neglect of it.
We should eagerly await the return of the Lord for us; we are his beloved, his bride. No bride awaits her
husband in the arms of another man. There is to be no compromise with idolatry or paganism.
The truth and reality of His return should be of great comfort. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Titus 2:13.
Until that time it is critical that we hold on to the truth that we have, and not get sidetracked into error even
though the traditions or doctrines are presented by a scintillating attractive character. We must remember
that Satan was the most beautiful of all of God’s creation. It must never be marketing strategies that
decide outcomes, but truth for genuine believers. Satan is the arch deceiver and his people specialize in
deception with super-spiritual packaging.
2:26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over
the nations:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The promise for the overcomer is that he will have a part in the Messianic kingdom and will share in
rulership over the nations. Those who have resisted satanic systems and the rulership of evil men and
systems over them are able to exercise genuine rulership under the Lord.
The word translated power can be rendered privilege or authority.
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OVERCOMER
POWER
APPLICATION
It is of interest that the Millennial Kingdom will consist of nations and not be an international conglomerate.
God celebrates our individuality; we are all members of separate nations, but eternally united in Christ.
True power to do the will of God comes from God alone. God gives us “more grace” to enable us to do all
he requires of us. James 4:5-10.
We have no authority other than what is given to us from the Lord.
2:27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to
shivers: even as I received of my Father.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here John quotes from an enthronement Psalm - Psalm 2:8-9. “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine
inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. 9 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou
shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.”
This psalm celebrated the promise to David and pointed to his seed who would rule over the nations that
sought to rebel against him. Man think they can rebel against the true king and creator of the earth and
follow after the “prince of this world”, but the true king is coming and he will rule and break the rebellion by
breaking the chief rebel. Satan was never the power figure he claimed to be; he was always a creature,
just an incredibly arrogant one! All who follow his arrogance will share his fate in the Lake of Fire.
It is noted that word translated rod “rhabdos” can be translated sceptre indicating rulership by a king. It is
not a rod of abuse/beating here, but rulership and the measurement of justice.
APPLICATION
Revelation declares that Jesus Christ is greater than the most powerful emperor the world has ever
known.
When Jesus Christ arrives back he will rule as an enlightened and absolute ruler.
At the cross Jesus Christ won back the earth from Satan; He is King of kings and Lord of lords today.
2:28 And I will give him the morning star.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word translated “to give” is the future, active, indicative, first person singular, of the Greek verb
didomi, which shows the reality of this gift in the future.
The promise is that the overcomer will have the “morning star”.
In Revelation 22:16 Christ Himself is declared to be the Morning Star – so this promise is real and already
true, for all who have accepted the Lord as their Saviour, have the Lord indwelling them now and forever.
APPLICATION
As Christians we have and will continue to have the reality of the morning star with us.
The possession of the true faith presupposes a possession of the person of Christ.
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2:29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The verb to hear is in the aorist tense, active voice, imperative mood, third person singular.
Everybody has ears which allow perception and acceptance of the Word of God.
APPLICATION
Every time [aorist tense] the Spirit talks to the churches in the form of study of the Word of God we are
[imperative mood] to actively listen [active voice].
The children of Jezebel will not hear what the Spirit says but the true children of the Lord will. A fruit of the
Holy Spirit is attention to the holy Word of God.
NOTES
CHAPTER THREE
CHURCH AT SARDIS - VERSES 1-6
The word "Sardis" means "remnant" or "those who escape." This church has a name that it is "living," but
God says it is spiritually dead.
The challenge is to wake up as in Ephesians 5:14. This wakening pictures a remnant of true believers
even in Sardis. This awakening returns to the Word of God that once had been received and heard, but
has been buried in the cares of daily life, and dead formalism for the majority. We are reminded again that
in each and every church there are godly people who hold to the Word and Truth.
Those who overcome are clothed in the white garments of imputed righteousness (Romans. 4:3-5; 2
Corinthians. 5:21). The Book of Life contains the names of those who trust in Christ alone (Revelation.
20:12) and they have security and eternal life in their relationship with Him.
Historically Sardis pictures the Reformation Church of 1500 to 1700 AD The awakening of men like John
Huss, John Wycliff, then Martin Luther, Zwingli, Calvin and many others brought a return to the Word of
God as the only authority of faith. These men recovered the truth of salvation by faith in Christ alone. Also
the individual priesthood of every believer (1 Peter. 2:5-9) delivered them from the tyranny of the Roman
priesthood that denied salvation to those who disagreed. Sadly the tyranny of some of the “pastors”
equalled that of the previously political and venal priests.
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3:1 And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven
Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest,
and art dead.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The seven spirits refers back to Isaiah 11 and shows that the Lord Jesus Christ had the Holy Spirit without
measure and therefore had the whole range of gifts applicable to the power of the Spirit. There was no
excuse for this church to be without spiritual power, for the Lord was ever ready to provide it.
This church had a name that they truly lived, but actually they were dead. This is a valid description of the
church of the Reformation as it developed in its later stages. They had a name that lived, as the
Reformation resulted in much doctrinal correctness and good creeds. Nevertheless they were all too often
dead in their legalism and hatred of Catholicism, and had no spiritual vitality. There is no such thing as
“Christ like hatred” of other believers. 1 John 3:11-24, 4:7-21.
They became dead because they failed to rectify the basic problem which was the union of church and
state. As they broke away from the Catholic Church they too became state churches. As they broke away
from catholic legalism they invented an equally dead legalism of their own. The one hundred years war
was the result with the deaths of hundreds of thousands of the innocent to men who thought themselves
godly saints, and anyone they killed a “Canaanite”.
The problem at Pergamos was the same as that at Sardis with children entering the State Church by
baptism and no requirement of personal faith in Christ. They were spiritually ‘nekros’, which is the word for
a dead corpse, or one who is observably dead. The fruit of their lives was dead works. Matthew 7:13-23,
James 2:14-26.
THE SUSTAINING MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
APPLICATION
The contrast here is between the Lord who had the Spirit without limit and the dead Church which does
not use the Spirit at all. We are called to remember the scriptures, and they are clear, those who do not
have the Holy Spirit active within them are dead, and are “none of His”. Romans 8:9.
While we all have the indwelling of the Spirit as born again believers, we have different gifts to function in
the body, but do not have the whole range of gifts - 1 Corinthians 12. There is no such thing as a believer
in the Lord Jesus Christ who is not Holy Spirit indwelt; the Holy Spirit Indwells all believers! The challenge
is to walk in the Spirit, and serve in the Spirit’s power. Ephesians 3:19-20, 5:1-2, 18.
We can only undertake works that are satisfactory to God in the power of the Holy Spirit otherwise we will
produce works which are filthy rags in his sight, observably dead works. Isaiah 64:6, Romans 8:4-11.
Even today there are many churches which have got good doctrinal creeds, but which are composed of
the spiritually dead in large measure, as the need for a saving faith to work out in the fruit of the Holy Spirit
is not emphasised. Many churches have numerous unsaved but moral people, and others saved but dead
people. These people enjoy the fellowship but their church is a hymn singing Rotary Club! A local church
is to be more than a social club if it is to win the Lord’s “well done”.
3:2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy
works perfect before God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word translated “be” should be translated become watchful. They have not been watchful in the past,
and they are commanded to become watchful from now on, shown by the Greek Imperative mood.
By becoming aware of their situation they can seek God’s work in their life, open their lives to the Holy
Spirit’s ministries, and so strengthen themselves by becoming spiritually alive.
The church is exhorted to resurrect that which is about to die, that is, to go back to the genuine spiritual life
that birthed their movements, as well as hold to their good doctrinal creeds. “Walk in the filling of the Holy
Spirit!”
The word ready is in the imperfect tense which means it keeps on being ready to die. Death is immanent
unless they act quickly.
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The works they are doing, as human works, are not acceptable to God. They were correct but not spiritual.
APPLICATION
Spiritual life is impossible without good doctrine, but good doctrine without spiritual life is dead. James
2:14-26.
The works of a moral and good unbeliever, or carnal Christian, are not acceptable to God. It is the subject
of the indictment of the unbeliever at the Last Judgment. Unless people receive the Lord as their Saviour,
are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and walk in the Spirit they cannot do spiritual works. Those who do not walk
and work in the Spirit are trusting their own human works, and their destiny is with all who reject the Lord’s
work for them – the Lake of Fire - Revelation 20:11-15.
3:3 Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt
not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The individual members of the church at Sardis are commanded to remember because this is in the
second person singular in the Greek language of the text, and that refers to all members individually.
They received things in the past [perfect tense] with the result that the benefits go on forever if they heed
the words heard. They have a belief in the Lord as the Son of God, but we must remember Satan himself
and his devils know that Jesus is the Son of God, and they tremble at the thought. If church members
don’t do any more than this, then their faith is no better than the devils, and they are unsaved! James 2:1920.
The act of repenting occurs at a point of time as seen by the aorist tense. The active voice shows that we
have to repent or there will be no salvation or spiritual service. The imperative mood indicates the urgency
of a change of attitude of the individual church member here.
The reaction to this command is a subjunctive mood which means they may or may not watch. The
alternative is now given. If you do not, maybe you will, maybe you will not, but the Lord is going to come
quickly in judgment. They must make a daily choice to be obedient and spiritual.
The future active indicative shows a logical future, no repentance, brings judgment. God is gracious, even
to the churches that are spiritually dead. He waits to bless, but there is a limit to the time he will wait.
Deadness in a church will result in the Lord coming unexpectedly to judge and eliminate them from the
earth. We are left here to be useful to the Lord, and if we are useless, we will be removed from the earth
as our purpose is not met. If a church is spiritually awake they will not be surprised by the coming of the
Lord for His church, nor will they be hesitant to serve the Lord in spiritual power. Such churches will see
their buildings used for other purposes than worship.
APPLICATION
In order to remember you need to have learnt something originally. The often spiritually dead Reformation
Churches did preach from the Bible, so there was hope that some would open their hearts to the truth.
It is up to the individual pastor and church member. You are not going to get a whole church remembering,
repenting, and then walking in the Spirit to serve, but if you have some there will be blessing and life
ministered into your community. It may be only a few but we are individually responsible, and the Lord
works only through those who open themselves to Him. Never count numbers, feed all and encourage all,
and lead all who will follow into whole hearted service.
The return of the Lord will be sudden and unexpected. If you are alert however you will expect His return
and be serving always in light of his expected return.
3:4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with
me in white: for they are worthy.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word few, “Oligos”, is the word from which we get oligarchy meaning the rule of a few. Those who
respond to the truth will serve the Lord and be blessed eternally. God works through them, and it doesn’t
matter how few they are, if they walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, they will move mountains.
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It was very common in the ancient world to have your garments spotted. People used the streets as
sewers and the passers by often were polluted by things which were thrown out of the nearby houses such
as the contents of chamber pots. It was normal in such cities to be “defiled” by sewerage, but the Lord can
cleanse his people as they walk with him in the worst and smelliest places. Believers had to be alert, or
have a companion who was, to keep from being defiled by sewerage.
Here we see those who are dressed in clean garments. They are believers walking in the Spirit.
These are ones who have exercised faith, and do have spiritual life, and have overcome the deadness in
the church by walking in spiritual power. The majority can never hold back or hold down a spirit filled
believer, and all of us can walk this way. It is our challenge so to do!
CHRISTIAN WALK
APPLICATION
We need to be spiritually alive and as free of sin as possible so that we do not defile our own garments,
and we need to be careful where we walk through this morally polluted world, so that others do not defile
us due to our carelessness.
If we do sin we need to confess the sin using 1 John 1:9 in order for our lives to be pure and able to have
fellowship with the Lord. Sin is to be resisted and we are to avoid known temptations, walking with
vigilance and care through the Devil’s world. Hebrews 12:13.
3:5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of
the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Periballo is in the future tense, indicative mood, the mood of reality, middle voice, the voice says that we
benefit from the clothing, third person singular. This construction means the Lord will clothe us individually
with His righteousness at the point of our conversion, and re-clothe us at the point of confession. The
indicative mood reminds us that this is a real and truthful promise and the Lord will do it.
Revelation 7:14 states that “... and they washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the
Lamb”. The garments are therefore a symbol of salvation. They illustrate the biblical doctrines of
Justification and Imputation (below).
The Greek word Exaleipho means to smear or rub out. He will not rub out our name from the book of Life.
Biblos the word translated book is contrasted with biblion which is used in Revelation 5:1,2,3,4 etc which
is a small book or roll. We will see the outcome of this action in Revelation 20. At the last judgment all who
are saved remain recorded in the “Book of Life”, but those who have left this life without accepting the Lord
as their Saviour have their names “rubbed out” of the book of life, as they have chosen death not life. they
must be judged according to their own works, as they have rejected the Lord’s great work on their behalf.
Confess is “to speak out the same”, rather than speak the same, as with 1 John 1:9.
JUSTIFICATION
IMPUTATION
APPLICATION
The Lamb’s book of Life is very large and has a large number of people in it. It appears from this verse
that all people start with their name in the Lamb’s Book of Life and the name is smeared or blotted out if
they remain unbelievers at the point of their death. There is visible hope right up till that point.
This is compatible with the statement that God is not willing that any should perish - 2 Peter 3:9.
We are imputed with the righteousness of Christ when we accept Him as Lord - 2 Corinthians 5:21.
The Lord will name us as believers before the Father as we are bought with a price, His sacrifice on the
Cross. 1 Peter 1:19. We have eternal life in Him forever, just as the unbeliever has eternal existence in
the Lake of Fire, for God’s gift of life is without removal. We all exist forever, it is only a question of how
we do!
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3:6 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The verb to hear is in the aorist tense, active voice, imperative mood, third person singular.
Everybody has ears which allow perception of the Word of God. All are responsible for their hearing,
believing and application of the Word of God. Those who reject, ignore, or despise will be held responsible
APPLICATION
Every time [aorist tense] the Spirit talks to the churches in the form of study of the Word of God we are
[imperative mood] to actively listen [active voice] and apply what we have heard, understood and believed;
to fail to do this is to place ourselves under the discipline or judgment of the Lord.
PHILADELPHIA VERSES 7-13
Philadelphia means "brotherly love." This church reflected the Biblical teaching of John 13:34-35. The
Christ who holds the keys of history sets before this Church an open door of worship and service (cf. 1
Corinthians. 16:9; Colossians 4:3).
This Revival and Missionary minded church would have victory over the Synagogue of Satan, and
because of faithful perseverance, would be kept from the "hour (time) of tribulation." The spiritual believers
of this church (the overcomers) are promised a permanent place of service in God's eternal temple bearing
the name of God.
Historically Philadelphia represents church history of 1700 to 2000 AD+. During this time we have the
great Revivals, Social Action, and Mission outreach of the Wesleys, Taylors, Wilberforce, and Carey,
among many others. China, India, and Africa became centres of great evangelistic work with local
churches in all places spreading the growing flame of the Holy Spirit’s power.
This missionary zeal will continue in many places until the Rapture removes the true church from
Tribulation. This fact is verified in 1 Thessalonians. 1:910, 4:13-18, 5:9 as well as Revelation. 1:19 and
4:1. While this church is “terminated” by most at around 1900 as liberalism bites hard into the official
churches, there are true churches that represent this type through until the Rapture.
The last days of the church are characterized by the co-existence of examples of all the seven churches
side by side, but the dominant one towards the end is the Laodicean model, as we will see below. The
spiritually active missionary churches of today are like Philadelphia, just as the earlier churches are
represented also in dead, legalistic and political ones.
In addition, the word "church" is mentioned all the way up to 4:1 (a picture of the Rapture), and from here
"Israel" becomes the focus. The reason for this is that the Great Tribulation is the "time of Jacob's trouble"
(Jeremiah. 30:7), to refine and regenerate the nation of Israel. The True Church is gone, leaving only the
fake shell of hypocritical and political churches that Anti-Christ will control through his False Prophet. This
fake shell is the last of the churches mentioned that is the main one left after the Rapture. It is fit only for
God’s judgment, and it will be thoroughly judged.
3:7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true,
he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The description of Christ comes from Revelation 1:18, picturing Christ as the one with the authority to
open and close doors of mission opportunity. This church is reminded that the power and authority is with
God alone.
The Greek tenses in opening and shutting are interesting, with the participle preceding the action of the
main verb. Here we see God opening and no one is able to shut, or God shutting and no man is able to
open. This church remembers that the Lord alone opens missionary doors, and born again believers are
called to enter the doors God has opened, not carry crow bars! God does the work and Jesus gets the
glory; man gets the benefits in time and eternity. This is a grace oriented, mission focused church.
The word to open “aniozo” means to open up again.
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APPLICATION
This is the only church, other than that of Smyrna, which has no condemnation set against it. Christ finds
nothing against this church and is satisfied with it.
Christ opens up again the door of service. We need to be walking with the Lord to have the privilege to
serve him. In our spiritual service we recognize that the Lord is the door opener, and we have results only
as we walk with Him in Holy Spirit power.
We as Christians can get windows of opportunity and it is up to us to be sensitive to them and work for the
Lord in His strength and under His direction.
3:8 I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a
little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Lord Jesus Christ is omniscient, He is all knowing. This church is powerful because the saved
membership understand the importance of the Holy Character of God. They walk in holy reverence for
who God truly is, and they minister Grace to the lost in Love, Mercy and Grace.
“Tereo” in this context can almost be seen as guarded or kept. This Church guards and proclaims the
truth of God’s Word. They see that the Word is to be defended and protected and proclaimed and that the
Lord blesses His Word alone, not the words of men.
Arneomai means to disown. These individual believers do not deny their Lord, but proclaim the truth of his
person and work, and explain the truth of His Word to all who will hear it. They openly serve their Saviour.
During the period of 1700-1990 there was virtually no place where a missionary could not go. Nearly every
place on earth was open to them, for the Lord opened the doors.
Today more and more countries are closing their doors to missionaries, but those with the spirit of the
church of Philadelphia continue to seek open doors and in the Holy Spirit’s power they will always be led
to them. They had little power, for it was only ever a minority supporting these missionaries, yet they gave
their all. Yet with a little power they were commended for their whole hearted service.
DOORS
FILLING OF THE SPIRIT
MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT - CHURCH AGE
APPLICATION
The Lord Jesus Christ knows our works and attitudes. It is only when they conform to His will that we are
able to enter and utilize the opportunities within the door He has opened.
The little strength indicates that they are basing their works on His grace and not relying on their own
strength. One with God is a majority! Let us not count numbers, but count blessings as we advance with
any who will advance with us into service. We follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance alone.
God is in control and no one can shut the door of opportunity other than God.
The church should be faithful to the Word and whole hearted in their service.
3:9 Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie;
behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
They are promised fruit from those who claim to be Jews, or the people of God, and are not. - Hosea 1:89, 2:23. When Israel are on the sideline of God’s program due to their rejection of the Messiah, they are
considered to be “not my people”.
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The two eimi verbs in this verse are the infinitive which shows intention or desire followed by the indicative
showing that they in reality are not true Jews.
In the future however they will, again become God’s special people and servants through the darkest days
of mankind’s history – the Tribulation period.
The time period covered by the Church of Philadelphia was also the time of the rise of the major modern
cults; eg, the Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The word “to know” is in the subjunctive mood, indicating that they might know that God loves the believer
and if they accept that truth and are transformed by it, then they will the more whole heartedly throw
themselves into spiritual service.
WORSHIP
APPLICATION
There has been a historic antagonism between the church and the Jews who as a nation have been set
aside temporarily in God’s plan. This time period also sees the great beginnings of Jewish Evangelism,
and that that gathers apace as we enter the 21 st Century. All this prepares the ground for the acceptance
of the Jewish people of their Messiah in the Tribulation period. Zechariah 12:10ff.
In the Tribulation period the Jews will come into their own as the Lord’s people again, and they will see a
massive conversion from amongst their race. At least 1/3rd will be saved in this time.
It is of interest that it is during this time that Jewish missions came into its own and by 1900 some 250,000
Jews had come to Christ. Interestingly Jewish missions first began in Germany, took root in England, and
finally came to fruition in the United States. They continue today led by Jews in Israel itself.
It was a time when the natural branches were again regrafted into the olive tree that had mainly Gentile
branches until that time. Romans 11:1ff.
3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation,
which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Greek word “Hupomone” means endurance showing the tenacity of a true church in spite of attack
upon the Word (by the German Liberal Universities) and direct persecution against genuine believers.
The phrase “tereo ek” shows that the church will be “kept out of” the testing. John used tereo rather than
aiero which would mean to take out of rather than protect from.
The word “temptation” means trial or testing. During this time period genuine believers were often denied
places in the old universities and denied access to degrees and positions in the “official” churches. They
had to turn away from the praise of men and seek only the blessing of the Lord.
There is a universal time of testing in the Tribulation period, and it will be a universal time of hardship
which will test the whole population of the world. During the period of Philadelphia the open attacks upon
biblical Christianity begin in earnest from the seats of learning and political power.
RAPTURE - PRE TRIBULATION
NOAH'S ARK
OBEDIENCE
APPLICATION
God will protect those who are his and will not allow them to be tested above what they are able to stand 1 Corinthians 10:13, Romans 8:28. believers are kept “out of” the testing, and this phrase reminds us that
discrimination against bible believing believers is constant in our world, but as long as we do not seek the
world’s favour, we will be kept “out” of its snares. Isaiah 55:6, Jeremiah 45:5, Matthew 6:32-33, 1
Corinthians 10:24, Hebrews 11:14, 13:14.
There will be a universal period of severe testing which the believing church will not go through.
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3:11 Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The middle voice of Erchomai indicates that it is of benefit to the believer that the Lord is coming.
The Greek word “tachu” is one from which we get the word tachometer; an instrument to measure speed.
Hold that fast indicates that there needs to be continued persistence The Lord tells them to keep on doing
what they are doing until He comes. This is a command from the Lord. We are reminded that this world is
not the place to settle into a deck chair and wait for the Lord to come. We are to be fully armoured every
day and ready for battle. The end of the battle is when we meet the Lord face to face, and not before.
The word “medeis” translated “no man” could also be translated “nothing”.
From the above it shows that crowns are not automatic in heaven. The person is saved yet as through fire
1 Corinthians 3:11-15. Crowns are received by those who win victories by walking in the power and under
the direction of the Holy Spirit.
SALVATION GIFTS
STABILITY
APPLICATION
The Lord is coming back swiftly when he comes, and will catch people unawares if they are not ready. By
the time people realise the Rapture is under way it will be completed; there is no time for believers to
complete any outstanding tasks or get something right before they are taken up to heaven.
We need to have stickability and consistency in the Christian life so that our lives are ever ready for the
Rapture of the Church. This means that we daily serve the Lord, daily walk in the Spirit, and daily put our
armour on and are ready for the battles of the Angelic Conflict.
We can lose rewards, which we will if we are not ready to worship and serve at all times, but we cannot
lose our salvation.
3:12 Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I
will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem,
which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word used for temple here is a dwelling place rather than “Heiron” which means Temple; a sacred or priestly edifice.
It is a word that focuses upon the personal relationship-fellowship of the person with their God.
In the ancient world the deeds of the great people in a community were inscribed on the pillars of the most important
buildings, usually a temple, so that they would be recorded as long as the settlement lasted. All buildings eventually fall
down and the inscriptions within them grind away to dust, but God’s recall of our great deeds in the Spirit are recalled
forever, and are the basis of our Crowns. Men may have temporary fame if they are great, but all believers who walk in
the Spirit have eternal fame through the Crowns given at the Lord’s throne.
The concept of a pillar has two meanings; that of being firmly fixed and giving stability to the building. Philadelphia was a
city of earthquakes, so it was a place of essential instability, but its church outlasted the other six churches mentioned in
these two chapters. They live in what many considered an unsafe place, but their service to the Lord was great and their
rewards will be lasting.
The believer receives this triple name (of God, of the city of God, of Christ) on his forehead just as the high-priest wore
the name of Jehovah upon his forehead. The writing of the divine name on the believer relates to the fact that we are in a
permanent relationship with God. We see the New Jerusalem, our eternal and stable home, in Revelation 21.
APPLICATION
The Lord will especially honour us if we are faithful to Him.
The deeds that we do in the power of the Spirit will be recorded and are rewarded.
We have great security and great stability because of our position in Christ Jesus.
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When we get to heaven we will be forever with the Lord.
3:13 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The verb to hear is in the aorist tense, active voice, imperative mood, third person singular. Everybody has
ears which allow perception of the Word of God and obedience to his commands. This is required of all.
APPLICATION
Every time [aorist tense] the Spirit talks to the churches in the form of study of the Word of God we are
[imperative mood] to actively listen [active voice]. There is always to be “fruit”, results of hearing, James 2.
LAODICEA VERSES 14-22
Here we have the final of the seven churches.
The name comes from “laos” (the people) and “dike” (rights). Thus the "human rights" church. The
apostasy of this church is found in that it was "lukewarm." The cooling of love for Christ begun in Ephesus
had in this church become total apostasy and spiritual indifference.
This church prided itself on its
wealth, riches, programs, and buildings; but Christ was completely left out (3:20). Jesus Christ vomits from
His mouth this apostate organisation (vs. 16). Yet still the offer of grace was extended to anyone within it’s
fake walls, who would receive it (vs. 18, 20).
Interestingly, Laodicea was the home of an eye-salve of the ancient world. As the "Amen" (the faithful
witness), Christ is the source of Light from the Word. He promised those who would come out of this
apostasy, fellowship (breaking the bread of life together), and ultimate exaltation in His throne (vs. 20-22).
Historically Laodicea represents the "modernistic" or theologically liberal church. Whatever the name or
designation, it places a premium on riches, programs, buildings, and, above all, human rights. This social
action focused church has become man-centred and has pushed Christ out of His rightful place "in the
midst of the churches." In this age of complacency, and polite rejection of enthusiastic faith, Christ still
continues to call His people out from apostasy and into the true riches of His grace and fellowship. This is
the church that’s structure is taken over by the Anti-Christ in the last days, and whose members are used
and then murdered by the Anti-Christ when he sets up his self centred worship of the Idol in the Temple.
3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and
true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The city to which this letter is addressed was famous as a centre for the eye doctors in the ancient world. It
was a place people came to receive healing for poor sight, and yet they cannot see the spiritual realities of
what their church has become. It also had the latest in water supply technology with water being piped,
using stone pipes, from the hot springs at Therme. As a result when the water arrived at Laodicea the
water was lukewarm. It was a luxury town, and a spa town, focused upon the pleasant life style that was
possible there for the rich with their wealth and status.
APPLICATION
The fact that people are ruling in the church is set in contrast with the Spirit ruling the church. It is a church
ruled entirely by men, and as such the Holy Spirit is not present in His role of empowering and guiding.
Ephesians 5:18. These people want a hymn singing Rotary Club, with good works, but no spiritual power.
This becomes a good illustration of the apostate liberal church which began in the early 1900’s and
continues until this day. Those who attend such churches want the moral structure of Christianity, but
disagree with all the fundamental doctrines, because they consider themselves “scientific” and all real
doctrine to be “fundamentalist” and pathetic to them.
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3:15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
Analysis and Background
God knew in the past what the Laodiceans performance was like and still knows. Nothing is hidden from
the creator of space and time, for all history is seen by the Lord and all provision has been made for those
who believe and those who reject faith and spiritual reality. We see history unfolding, God sees all history.
The present, active, indicative, of “eimi” shows that these people currently are permanently and decidedly
carnal. These people have deliberately chosen their present path. They believe they “see” the truth and
they have rejected the “fired up” spirituality of the enthusiasts they despise.
Cold is the unbeliever, hot is the spirit filled believer, lukewarm is the carnal believer who was once hot but
has cooled down to nothing. Lukewarm may also be seen as the “make believer” who fakes the genuine.
The phrase “I would that thou wert” is a combination of a wish with the imperfect tense, which refers to
continuous action in past time, and means that the Lord wished either that they were unbelievers [cold] or
spiritual believers [hot]. The place they have come to is untenable and will lead to judgment.
SPIRITUALITY
APPLICATION
If the person is hot they are a believer who is controlled by the Holy Spirit and can be used by the Lord
Jesus Christ in His service. If the person is cold they are an unbeliever who can listen to the gospel and
accept the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour and become a hot believer. This is in contrast with the lukewarm
person who is the carnal Christian of verse 16.
These “liberal” people can be very hard to reach with the truth, for they feel settled into their conclusions
and happy in their mediocrity. They have rejected passionate faith and want polite life style, without
disturbing preachers calling them to whole hearted service and worship. Their hearts are lukewarm to God
and the things of God, for they save their passion for things of life.
3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my
mouth.
Analysis and Background
Chliaros is only used once in the Scriptures. It means lukewarm, neither hot nor cold.
Again we see that these people are habitually and decidedly carnal; they do not care to change.
The word mello which is translated “will” is in fact best translated here, “being about to”. The Lord is at the
end of His patience with this church and action is now at hand.
The reaction of Jesus Christ is seen in the word “emeo” which means to vomit and is where we get the
word emetic. It is a reminder to us that the patience of the Lord is gracious but limited. Action is required
of us when doctrine is at stake, and true worship and service is required.
CARNALITY
APPLICATION
The person who is hot is the spiritual believer, the cold person the unbeliever.
However the lukewarm believer, the carnal Christian, makes the Lord sick and He wants to disassociate
himself from them, for their attitude is insulting to all he has done for them.
The carnal Christian is a hindrance and insult to the Plan of God. They have limited time to get things right.
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3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not
that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The people here are rich in worldly goods and worldly scientific knowledge, but are self deceived because
they are spiritually poor, blind, and naked. They have a completely false perception of spiritual reality.
Liberalism and modern atheism has this in common. They reject God’s actions within the world as the
creator, and yet speak of evolutionary processes as if they are alive. They reject the true mind behind the
universe, and yet speak of the laws of physics as if they are intelligent!
The Sermon on the Mount contrasts this God-less attitude with those who will be blessed - Matthew 5:3
This is a good picture of the apostate church. An apostate can be defined as a person who has departed
from the truth that he may once professed to have had. Seldom however does the apostate have and hold
the full truth. Often these people consider themselves “Christian” and yet they have never truly bowed
before the Lord and accepted Jesus as their Saviour, in fact they mock such evangelical phrases. They
are fakes.
The form that this sort of apostasy takes is given in 1 Timothy 4:1-3, 2 Timothy 3:5, and 2 Peter 2:1-22.
POVERTY
DENIALS THAT CHARACTERISE THE END TIME CHURCH
APPLICATION
Those who are wealthy, socially acceptable, and scientifically “approved” by men, often do not see the
need for spiritual things or for a deliberate act leading to salvation.
They believe that money can buy you everything you need in this life, and that the acceptance of educated
and “important” people is a recognition of genuine spiritual status. Are we rich in goods but spiritually
destitute?
The Bible is clear on this matter; there will be great apostasy in the church in the latter times [2
Thessalonians 2:1-3, 1 Timothy 4:1-5, Jude 4, 8-10].
We are seeing apostasy spreading through many churches today as they try and conform to current mores and so
called “scientific” principles which are constantly being eroded or changed.
3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou
mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye
salve, that thou mayest see.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This is a call to sanctification; they are counselled to seek spiritual wealth in Christ. They are called to
repent of their false viewpoint and embrace the truth of historic Christianity, not liberal fakery. Secondly,
because they are spiritually naked, they are urged to put on imputed righteousness that can only be
obtained by bowing at the foot of the Cross. Revelation 3:4, 3:5, 6:11, 7:9, 13-14
Thirdly because they are spiritually blind they are exhorted to receive spiritual sight. They must take
action to achieve these things; repentance and submission to the Lord are required. There are a number
of subjunctive moods in this verse indicating that definite action was needed by the Laodiceans.
BLIND MAN A PICTURE OF THE UNSAVED
APPLICATION
As Christians, even having been saved, we can be poor of sight if we reject the correcting Word of God,
and the purifying work of the Holy Spirit within our lives. The liberal make believer however needs to see
the truth and bow before the Lord as indeed the Lord of all.
We need to receive imputed righteousness and live in the knowledge and power of that, not any self
righteousness or false belief in the good of mankind.
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3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Love is phileo which is a friendship type love rather than agapao which is unconditional love.
Believers will receive discipline from a loving Father. “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son
whom he receiveth.” Hebrews 12:6
Repent is a compound verb “meta” meaning to change and “noeo” the mind. It therefore means to change
your mind, and such an event always involved change of actions, as the outworking of genuine mind
change. James 2:14-26.
APPLICATION
Those who Jesus loves are those who follow His commandments. John 15:4-14.
The Lord disciplines those who are his friends so that they may change their minds and become zealous
for the faith. Hebrews 12:7-12.
All discipline from God is for the benefit of the believer. In this case the benefit would come if carnal Christians
repent and become central players a again in the plan of God.
3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to
him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here Christ is outside the church, knocking. He is standing, expressed in the Greek perfect tense,
meaning that he has been standing in the past with the result that he is still standing.
Christ is not in this church at all, because it is basically an out of fellowship church. They have deliberately
but without fully realising the significance of their actions, locked Him out.
Christ is seen knocking at the door. This is followed by two subjunctive moods, where if someone (anyone
within the unspiritual church) hears, perhaps they will, perhaps they will not, and if someone will open the
door, perhaps they will or will not. . . . . This church is still being offered the chance to enter into fellowship
with the Lord but they must open the door of their heart and mind and invite the Lord in.
Notice the word “to sup” means to take a meal, indicating a person is going to have meaningful fellowship.
APPLICATION
The exhortation is to any individual in the apostate church to hear Christ’s voice and open his heart to Him.
If he does so Christ will come in and have fellowship with Him.
Getting back into fellowship involves the free will of a person as demonstrated by the subjunctive moods of
hear and open. Repentance is a choice! Happiness with Jesus is a choice.
3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set
down with my Father in his throne.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Christ is at the right hand of the Father which is the place of commendation in the ancient world.
The action of the participle precedes the action of the main verb, so the person has to become an
overcomer before he can be granted the privilege of sitting on the throne.
The definition of an overcomer is given in 1 John 5:4-5; “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this
is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that
Jesus is the Son of God? “
To be seated was by invitation and command of the head of the house; it was of/by divine appointment.
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God invited Jesus Christ to sit at His right hand until he made His enemies His footstool. Hebrews 1:13,
10:13.
APPLICATION
Whilst the majority of the Laodicean type church will go through the Tribulation as unbelievers, there are
the small number of believers who are within this church, and if they take spiritual actions, they will sit with
Christ in a place of honour.
These are believers who have responded to the call to repentance, and by doing this, they are
overcomers. These people may include the multitudes who will respond in the Great Tribulation.
3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The verb to hear is in the aorist tense, active voice, imperative mood, third person singular (to all).
Everybody has ears which allow perception of the Word of God and obedience to its clear commands.
APPLICATION
Every time [aorist tense] the Spirit talks to the churches in the form of study of the word of God we are
[imperative mood] to actively listen [active voice].
EVENTS PRIOR TO THE TRIBULATION
SEQUENCE OF PRE TRIBULATIONAL EVENTS
INTRODUCTION
Revelation chapters 2 and 3 have dealt with the Church on earth, Revelation 4 and 5 will show the church in heaven,
while Revelation 6-18 portrays the Tribulation period. It is now appropriate to examine the sequence of events which will
occur around the time of the return of the Lord Jesus Christ for his church.
DEFINITIONS
Three periods need to be defined in chronological sequence: RAPTURE – The instant in time when the Lord Jesus Christ returns in the air for His Church
TRIBULATION – A period of 7 years of great trouble and testing on the earth – the last half of which is referred to as the
GREAT TRIBULATION.
MILLENNIUM – A period of 1000 years of the reign of Christ on this earth to fulfil the Davidic and Palestinian covenants
with Israel
“GAPS” EITHER SIDE OF THE TRIBULATION
[A]
RAPTURE - TRIBULATION
It should be noted that there is an indeterminate time lapse between the Rapture and the Tribulation as the technical
start of the Tribulation is the signing of the seven year covenant between the Antichrist and the Leader of Israel. Daniel
9:24-27
However 2 Thessalonians 2 6-8 clearly states that the Restrainer [Many believe this to be the Holy Spirit, others the
Arch-Angel Michael who has particular protective roles over Israel] will be “taken out of the way” before the Antichrist is
revealed and Israel again becomes the centre of the Plan of God. The Holy Spirit is clearly not removed, but returns to
his ministry as it was in the Age Of Israel before the Church Age, but in this He will be “restrained” in a way He is not in
the Church Age. Michael is however severely restrained in this time and Israel becomes the focus of Anti-Christ’s hatred
through this time, but at the end of the period he will again “stand up” and fight for Israel and protect them until the Lord’s
final return. Daniel 12:1-8.
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We believers will not know the identity of the Antichrist before we leave this earth with the Lord, nor can we be 100%
clear as to the exact sequence of events after we leave. What is explained below is our best expression of what we see
at this time, and it will be corrected by those who live at the time. The fact that we will not know all the events in their right
sequence, and none will know these things until the time, is explained to Daniel in Daniel 12:9-13. We must remember
that if all things for this time were 100% clear, then Satan would know exactly God’s Plan in advance and he would be
able to take serious counter actions.
Satan is not all knowing, and can know things only by revelation himself, and so he is not ready to defeat God’s people,
for the Lord has “sealed” many crucial details so that Satan cannot defeat the Lord’s people totally in this time. The
actual sequence of events will catch Satan by surprise, but believers who know the scriptures will then understand them
all, because they will need to at that time. The Holy Spirit will reveal the truth to those who “need to know”. This old
military intelligence concept is what we need to remember as we speak of these things; we don’t “need to know”, so we
don’t, but the saved of that time do “need to know”, and the Holy Spirit will reveal all things to them at that time.
There is therefore a gap between the technical start of the seven year period and the Rapture of the Church when certain
events occur that open the door for the salvation of the multitudes that we will later see are saved in this terrible time.
[B]
TRIBULATION - MILLENNIUM
There is also a gap between the Tribulation and Millennium which appears to be 75 days according to Daniel 12:11-12.
This has relevance in the determining of the position of the northern invasion of Israel [see event 4 in the list of pre
tribulational events noted below]
PRE TRIBULATIONAL EVENTS
There are a number of events prophesied to take place prior to the Tribulation. The first three have already been fulfilled.
They are
1.
World Wars
2.
The Rebirth of Israel
3.
Jewish control of Jerusalem
4.
Northern Invasion of Israel
5.
One World Government
6.
The World Divided into Ten Regions
7.
The Rise of the Antichrist
8.
Period of Peace and False Security
9.
The Seven Year Covenant
10.
The Return of Elijah
11.
The Third Temple
12.
Blackouts
It should be noted that the sequence of events 10-12 are not necessarily stated chronologically; as noted above.
These twelve events are divided into three - Events that have already happened, Events that we may see, and Events
that we will not see.
FULFILLED EVENTS SHOWING THE CLOSENESS OF THE COMING TRIBULATION
EVENT 1.
WORLD WARS – Matthew 24:1-8
In verses 7-8 Christ revealed the single event that will indicate the end of the age has begun “ Nation shall rise up
against nation and kingdom against kingdom" coupled with famines and earthquakes. This is said to be the
beginning of travail or birth pangs.
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This idiom taken in the Jewish context means world war or a total conflict of the area in view. The idiom is found in two
Old Testament passages; Isaiah 19:1-4 which speaks of conflict all over the land of Egypt, and 2 Chronicles 15:1-7,
which speaks of conflict over all the Middle East. In the Olivet Discourse the whole world is in view hence World War is
prophesied.
There has been a great increase in the frequency of severe earthquakes. There have been a huge increase in the
number of deadly earthquakes in our own day, In addition famines have increased especially since the mid 1970’s.
EVENT 2 - THE RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF ISRAEL
This happens in two stages, the return in unbelief in preparation for judgment which occurs in the form of the Tribulation,
which is followed by a world wide regathering in faith in preparation for blessing in the Millennium The fact that the
unbelief stage is followed by the believing stage and the return to the land is given in Ezekiel 37: It is noted that those
returning are from all the tribes of Israel and not just the three (Judah, Benjamin and Levi) in captivity in Babylon, with
Assyria having taken the northern tribes into captivity some 150 years before Ezekiel’s ministry.
Passages regarding Judgment – Ezekiel 20:33-38, 22:17-22.
Passages regarding blessing – Ezekiel 36:22-24, Isaiah 11:11-12.
The judgement is the Tribulation Zephaniah 1:14-18, 2:1-2 with the Day of Jehovah or Day of the Lord referring to the
Tribulation.
It is of note that the Tribulation starts with the signing of a covenant between the World Dictator and the Leader of Israel
that shows that there must be a nation Israel in place for that to occur.
EVENT 3
JERUSALEM UNDER JEWISH CONTROL
This is required for the building of the third temple. There are 4 passages showing the relation between the Temple and
the Tribulation. They are:-Daniel 9:27, Matthew 24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 11:1-2
FUTURE EVENTS OF THE COMING TRIBULATION WHICH WE MAY SEE
The following events we may or may not see.
EVENT 4.
THE NORTHERN INVSION OF ISRAEL - Ezekiel 38:1-39:16
Details of the Invasion
Who are Involved – 38:1-6 – Gog – Czar or Ruler
Magog, Rosh, Meshech and Tubal are all tribes that in ancient times occupied modern Turkey/Russia/Ukraine. Rosh is
the basis of the word Russia whilst Meshech is preserved in the City of Moscow and Tubal in the City of Tobolsk in the
Urals in Siberia. The position of these invaders is given in verse 6 – from the uttermost parts of the north. It is of note that
Jerusalem has a longitude of 35.14 E whilst that of Moscow is 37.35 E. This is repeated in Ezekiel 38:15 and 39:2.
The northern confederation is joined in verses 5-6 by Persia or Iran, Cush or Ethiopia, Put or Somalia, Gomer and
Togarmah or old soviet Moslem states to the north of Armenia.
Where does it occur?:- 38:7-9 - In the mountains of Israel. There are many troops.
Why does it occur?
From a human viewpoint - to take spoil. Some nations protest against this – [ Sheba and Dedan] which are in Arabia
and Tarshish which is either Spain or Britain and the nations they founded – 38:10-13
From God’s viewpoint - that He be sanctified before the nations - 38:14-16
What and how? – 38:17-23
The army will be destroyed by God through earthquakes [v19-20], civil war in the army [v21], pestilence, flood, hailstones
fire and brimstone (nuclear strikes?) [v22]. God is therefore glorified in the nations as He eliminates the army by Himself.
The location of this defeat is given in 39:2,4 – on the mountains of Israel
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In 39:7 it shows that the north itself will be devastated by God’s judgment.
Revival in Israel – 39:7-8
The Big Cleanup – Ezekiel 39:9-16
Removal of the weapons of war will take 7 years and burying of the dead 7 months.
The crucial question is when chronologically this will take place
From the above passage we see that at the time of invasion Israel is a state again, the waste places are inhabited, Israel
is dwelling in unwalled villages and is dwelling securely. All these factors occur now in Israel.
Timing of the Invasion
There are five different positions held as to when this occurs.
A.
The most probable is well before the Tribulation which allows for the clean up of seven years and seven months
burial. It also allows for the political situation that could see the rebuilding of a Temple beside the Mosques.
B.
In the Tribulation – the Jews would likely try and use the weapons rather than destroy them. They would have
trouble enough without trying to have 7 months of burial parties.
C
Associated with the battle of Armageddon – this is at the end of the Tribulation period. The battle of
Armageddon involves all nations of the world and not just the northern group.
D
Between the Tribulation and Millennium – however this is a 75 day period as shown above and would also
involve the cleanup taking place in the Millennium which is incompatible with the character of that age
E
At the end of the Millennium – this again involves armies from the whole world and is incompatible with the fact
that soon after the Lord destroys the armies besieging Jerusalem eternity future comes into being with a new
heaven and new earth.
EVENT 5
THE ONE WORLD GOVERNMENT
In Daniel 7:23-24 we see the fourth beast devouring the whole world to form a One World Government. Out of this will
eventually come the Antichrist. We see many trends towards one world systems nowadays in 2014.
EVENT 6.
THE TEN KINGDOMS
Daniel 7:24a says” And out of the kingdom shall ten kings arise” This shows that from the one world government 10
regions covering the world will be formed. It is of interest that the Club of Rome divided the world into ten regions in the
early 1970’s
FUTURE EVENTS WE WILL CERTAINLY NOT SEE
EVENT 7 – THE RISE OF ANTICHRIST
Daniel 7:24b says ‘and another shall arise after them and he shall be diverse from the former and shall put down three
kings”
This is the Antichrist rising to power. His identity and status must be known prior to the Tribulation as the start of the
Tribulation is the signing of the covenant with the Jews for the seven year period, but he is not seen as the “Anti-Christ”.
We will not know his identity 100% as outlined above.
EVENT 8 – PERIOD OF PEACE AND SECURITY
This is placed just before the Tribulation. It is mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 and says that the Tribulation will come
suddenly when people are saying “peace and safety”.
EVENT 9 – SEVEN YEAR COVENANT
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The signing of this covenant between the Antichrist and the Jews will start the Tribulation period.
OTHER PRE TRIBULATION EVENTS WHICH WE MAY OR MAY NOT SEE
EVENT 10
THE THIRD TEMPLE
There are 4 passages showing the relation between the Temple and the Tribulation. They are:-Daniel 9:27, Matthew
24:15, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 11:1-2
That a third Temple will be operating in the Tribulation is clear. Whether it will be built before the Tribulation or during the
first few months of the Tribulation is not clear, It is clear however that the Jews are ready to build this Temple. In addition
they have already trained priests from the tribes of Levi to function once the Temple is a reality.
EVENT 11 – THE RETURN OF ELIJAH
The last two verses in the Old Testament – Malachi 4:5-6 tells of the return of Elijah before the Tribulation. He will have a
ministry of strengthening the Jewish family.
EVENT 12
BLACKOUT
In Joel 3:21 we are told that “the sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon into blood before the great and terrible
day of Jehovah cometh”. This darkness is total. We may see this day.
It is clear from the above that as a generation we are seeing the fulfilment of a number of these events and the distinct
possibility of the other events occurring.
The Holy Spirit and the Tribulation - Written by: Dr. Thomas Ice – Pre-Trib Research Center
“And you know what restrains him now, so that in his time he may be revealed. For the mystery of lawlessness is already
at work; only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way. —2 Thessalonians 2:6-7
One of the most compelling, yet often misunderstood, arguments for pretribulationism relates to the Holy Spirit's role to
the church and the tribulation period. Most holding to the pre-trib position believe that 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 refers to the
restraining ministry of the Holy Spirit through the agency of the Church. Thus, when the church is raptured before the
tribulation, that ministry of the Holy Spirit will be removed as well. If this interpretation is correct, then it is a strong
argument for pretribulationism.
The Restrainer
Second Thessalonians 2:1-12 discusses a man of lawlessness being held back until a later time. Interpreting the
restrainer of evil (2:6) as the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit at work through the body of Christ during the current
Church Age, supports pretribulationism. Since "the lawless one" (the beast or Antichrist) cannot be revealed until the
Restrainer (the Holy Spirit) is taken away (2:7-8), the tribulation, (called the day of the Lord in this passage), cannot
occur until after the church is removed. Of all the rapture positions, only the pre-trib position can be harmonized when we
understand that the Restrainer is referring to the Holy Spirit.
I believe the correct interpretation of this passage understands the restrainer to refer to the Holy Spirit as He functions
during the present church age through the baptism of the Holy Spirit and indwelling of believers. These are ministries that
are unique to the Church Age. Both the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit began on
the Day of Pentecost as Acts 2 describes. Therefore, these ministries of the Holy Spirit were not active in this way before
the birth of the Church.
The cryptic reference to the Holy Spirit's present work in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 explains the unusual grammar employed
in the passage. In verse six "the restrainer" is in the neuter gender (to katŽchon) while in verse seven "the Restrainer" is
masculine (o katech™n). The significance of such grammar and how it relates to the Holy Spirit and the rapture is
explained by Dr. Robert Thomas below.
Key to the above scenario is whether the Holy Spirit is the Restrainer. After surveying various interpretations of the
passage he concludes:
To one familiar with the Lord Jesus' Upper Room Discourse, as Paul undoubtedly was, fluctuation between neuter and
masculine recalls how the Holy Spirit is spoken of. Either gender is appropriate, depending on whether the speaker (or
writer) thinks of natural agreement (masc. because of the Spirit's personality) or grammatical (neuter because of the
noun pneuma; see John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13, 14) . . . This identification of the restrainer with deep roots in church history
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. . . is most appealing. The special presence of the Spirit as the indweller of saints will terminate abruptly at the parousia
as it began abruptly at Pentecost. Once the body of Christ has been caught away to heaven, the Spirit's ministry will
revert back to what he did for believers during the OT period . . . . His function of restraining evil through the body of
Christ (John 16:7-11; 1 John 4:4) will cease similarly to the way he terminated his striving in the days of Noah (Gen. 6:3).
At that point the reins will be removed from lawlessness and the Satanically inspired rebellion will begin. It appears that
to katechon ("what is holding back") was well known at Thessalonica as a title for the Holy Spirit on whom the readers
had come to depend in their personal attempts to combat lawlessness (1 Thess. 1:6; 4:8; 5:19; 2 Thess. 2:13).[1]
Dr. Gerald Stanton cites six reasons why this passage should be understood to refer to the Holy Spirit's restraining
ministry through the church.
(1) By mere elimination, the Holy Spirit must be the restrainer. All other possibilities fall short of meeting the requirements
of one who is to hold in check the forces of evil until the manifestation of Antichrist. . . .
(2) The Wicked One is a personality and his operations include the realm of the spiritual. The restrainer must likewise be
a personality and of a spiritual order, to resist the wiles of the Devil and to hold Antichrist in check until the time of his
revealing. . . .
(3) To achieve all that is to be accomplished, the restrainer must be a member of the Godhead. He must be stronger
than the Man of Sin, and stronger than Satan. . . .
(4) This present age is in a particular sense the "dispensation of the Spirit," for He works in a way uncommon to other
ages as an abiding Presence within the children of God. . . .
(5) The work of the Spirit since His advent has included the restraint of evil. The Spirit is God's righteous Agent for the
age, and there are many reasons to be grateful for His restraining hand upon this world's iniquity. None but the Lawful
One could restrain this world's iniquity. . . .
(6) It is not difficult to establish that although the Spirit was not resident on earth during Old Testament days, whatever
restraint was exerted was by the Spirit. . . . (Isa. 59:19) . . . The wickedness of Noah's day and the fact that life went on
as usual in blindness to impending destruction is used of the Spirit in vivid portrayal of careless and wicked men upon
whom Tribulation judgment shall fall. . . .
In light of this Scriptural parallel, it is exceedingly significant that in the days immediately preceding the destruction of the
flood, the restraining work of the Spirit is emphasized. . . .[2]
The Church Age
The Church began on the Day of Pentecost with a visitation of the Holy Spirit as recorded in Acts 2. The Church ends at
the rapture with the translation of living saints and the resurrection of those who have died in Christ (1 Thess. 4:13-18).
Until the rapture, God is gathering out from the Gentiles a people for His name (Acts 15:14) and combining them with the
elect remnant of Israel (Rom. 11:5; Eph. 2:11–22) into one new body called the Church (Eph. 2:11–3:13; Col. 1:24–27).
This great task is accomplished by a unique ministry of the Holy Spirit only during the Church Age called the baptism of
the Holy Spirit. Paul taught in 1 Corinthians 12:13, "For by one Spirit were we all [Jewish and Gentile Believers] baptized
into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit." Such a
work of the Holy Spirit is only for the Church—the Body of Christ. Therefore, it is not surprising that since the tribulation
cannot start until after the Church is completed and taken to heaven in the rapture that the man of lawlessness is
restrained through the presence of the Holy Spirit on earth indwelling Church Age Believers. This current work of the
Holy Spirit is unique to the church. Dr. John Walvoord explains:
We search the prophetic Scriptures in vain for any reference to baptism of the Spirit except in regard to the church, the
body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13). While, therefore, the Spirit continues a ministry in the world in the tribulation, there is no
longer a corporate body of believers knit into one living organism. There is rather a return to national distinctions and
fulfillment of national promises in preparation for the millennium.[3]
Conclusion
Those who do not hold to pretribulationism often mischaracterize our view of the Holy Spirit in the tribulation. They often
say that pretribulationists do not believe that the Holy Spirit will be present during the tribulation. This is not what we are
saying! We do believe that the Holy Spirit will be present and active during the tribulation. We do believe the Holy Spirit
will not be carrying out His present unique ministry related to the Church since the completed body of Christ will be in
heaven. Further, we are saying that the Holy Spirit will be present in His transdispensational ministry of bringing the elect
of the tribulation to faith in Christ, even though they will not be part of the body of Christ—the Church. The Holy Spirit will
also aid Tribulation Believers as they live holy lives unto the Lord. The Holy Spirit will also function to seal and protect the
144,000 Jewish witnesses for their great evangelistic ministry as noted in Revelation 7 and 14 and the two witnesses of
Revelation 11.
The Rapture could very well be the greatest evangelistic tool in human history. When millions of people disappear from
the face of the earth in a split second of time, all kinds of theories and explanations will surface. But many will remember
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the warnings of friends and loved ones about the truth of the Rapture. In a moment of time, they will realize what has
happened. They have been left behind. God will use this mind-numbing realization to bring them to faith in His Son. The
Holy Spirit will be active, as He always has throughout history, to bring the elect to salvation in Christ.
Even though pretribulationists believe that many unique aspects of the current work of the Holy Spirit will cease at the
rapture, it is not correct to say that we believe the Holy Spirit will not be present during the tribulation. Just as the Holy
Spirit will engage in some ministries during the tribulation, relating to the 144,000 witnesses and the two witnesses, that
are not occurring during the current church age, so there will cease certain ministries unique to the church which will
enable the man of sin to come onto the stage of history. Maranatha!”
Endnotes
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------[1] Robert L. Thomas, "2 Thessalonians," in The Expositor's Bible Commentary, Vol. 11, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein (Grand
Rapids: Zondervan, 1978), pp. 324-25.
[2] Gerald B. Stanton, Kept From The Hour, 4th. ed., (Miami Springs, FL: Schoettle Publishing Company, 1991), pp. 99102.
[3] John F. Walvoord, The Holy Spirit (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing Co., 1958), p. 231.
NOTES
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CHAPTER FOUR
INTRODUCTION
It should be noted that chapters four and five are a single unit, therefore, they would greatly enhance the
reader's comprehension of the book if they were read as one chapter. Remember the chapter and verse
divisions enter the text as part of the printing process in the 1400s, and so while helpful, do not have any
infallibility associated with them.
Notice that a part of John's prophetic vision of the Rapture is to show "what must take place after these things."
The only way John as a Church Age believer could view the Tribulation is from heaven. Consider some
consistent exegetical principles:
1.
There is a very strong message throughout the Scriptures on the concept of grace before judgment,
and here we have this with chapters 4 and 5 before the great judgments of chapters 6-19 showing the body of
Christ in heaven.
2.
The door into heaven was opened at the cross and remains open. It is symbolised by the rent veil in
the temple (Matthew 27:51) which opened the way of access for all into the Holy of Holies, a picture of God's
throne room (Hebrews 8:5).
3.
Jesus Himself entered Heaven on our behalf (Hebrews 4:14, 6:20) and He is our door into Heaven
(John 10:7).
4:1 After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it
were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be
hereafter.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The scene presented by John changes dramatically, as the phrase "after this," the "things" of chapters two and
three introduces a new vision.
John is no longer on earth but in heaven as we are told "a door was standing open".
"A door standing open in Heaven," is in the perfect tense, it was opened in the past with a result that it is still
open. It is in the passive voice which means it has received opening. Literally it means “having been opened”.
The one opening the door must be God, for God alone is capable of doing this, and Satan has no power to
stop it. This is a strong theme of the book of Revelation – for it is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ” – it reveals
his power and rulership, and reminds us that Satan is limited and defeated.
At this point he heard a loud and authoritative voice talking to him. John is ordered to come up that he might be
given a heavenly perspective on earthly events. Not only that but the purpose is that he is being shown what is
to happen or come into being in the future with the infinitive mood of ginomai. John sees things that are not
seen before by any other prophet. He is able to see things that have been hidden until this time that make
sense of many other prophetic words, but some things will remain unclear in their exact time sequence, as we
saw from Daniel’s words in Daniel 12. The best framework for understanding the future comes from the Jewish
Wedding.
JEWISH WEDDING
At the time of Christ the wedding was arranged by the father of the groom. In this analogy the relationship
between Christ and mankind will be examined.
1.
Prior to the first visit of the prospective groom to the bride, the father made arrangements for their
relationship. (Hebrews 2:13)
Analogy - God the Father - the Planner made arrangements for mankind in eternity past.
2.
The prospective groom would then meet the bride and fellowship with her.
Analogy - Christ came to earth at the first advent and spent time with man.
3.
Prior to leaving the bride's house the bridegroom would pay the whole dowry or payment for the bride.
(Hebrews 9:23-28)
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Analogy - Christ's death on the cross paid the debt of all mankind in full.
4.
The bridegroom would return to his father's house and build a future house for the newly married
couple to live in. (John 14:1-3)
Analogy - Christ ascended to his father's house to prepare a place for his bride.
5.
At the Father's request the Son would go to the Bride's home to pick the bride up.
Analogy - Christ's return to earth for his church at the Rapture.
6.
The bride as she left her home was married to the groom. (1 Corinthians 15:51-58)
Analogy - As the body of Christ rises to meet Christ in the air the body becomes the bride.
7.
The bride has been preparing her wedding garments waiting for the bridegroom. The bridegroom
adorns his bride for the wedding supper. (1 Corinthians 3:12-15)
Analogy - Whilst waiting for the return of Christ, the body produces gold, silver and precious stones.
The final dressing of the body is done by Christ at the Judgment seat of Christ.
8.
The bride and groom hold a wedding feast which in rich families could last a month.
Analogy - The wedding feast of Christ will last 1,000 years - The Millennium on earth.
9.
Friends of the bridegroom would attend the wedding feast.
Analogy - Old Testament Saints in resurrection bodies will be in the rejoicing of the Millennium.
10.
Friends of the bride waited outside the wedding hall, with lamps alight waiting for the bridal couple
before they entered the wedding feast. (Matthew 25:1-13)
Analogy - Tribulation Saints who survive the great tribulation will enter into the Millennium in their
physical bodies to replenish the earth. Unbelievers will be cast off the earth as they are not invited to
the marriage supper of the lamb.
The passage of Scriptures from the first advent of Christ to the end of the Millennium is clearly seen in
its analogy to the Jewish Wedding Ceremony.
APPLICATION
Therefore, from the standpoint of time, the Rapture of the Church can be seen as having already occurred
before the events of chapter four and following chapters of Revelation unfold for John.
The clause "things which must be hereafter" is to be compared and equated with the similar expression "the
things which shall be hereafter" in Revelation 1:19.
This is the third of four doors we see in this book and the Lord has opened the doors.
Through John’s writings we are able to get a glimpse (as far as we can see as people still in the space-time
universe now) of what it is going to be like in heaven after the Rapture of the Church.
When we get to heaven we will have a resurrection body, we will lose our human good, as wood hay and
stubble, and also lose our old sinful nature. The body of Christ is sanctified before He comes back with his
saints.
There are two ways to go to heaven, one of them is to die, the other is to be translated at the Rapture of the
church.
4:2 And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
When John arrived in Heaven he immediately "became in the Spirit”. The reference is to being controlled by
the Holy Spirit. This would indicate that he considered that he was carnal/impure before. The presence of
God confronts man with imperfection – all bow their knee and prostrate themselves before Him.
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The middle voice of ginomai confirms that John was benefited by his change of spiritual status, which with the
aorist tense, occurred at a point of time, the time of confession. If he had been spiritual throughout a different
verb would have been used. This is an encouraging reminder that the great apostle had to use confession
regularly, just as we do.
The picture of God on the throne is common in both the Old and New Testament (Matthew 5:34; Hebrews 1:3).
The imperfect tense shows that the throne in heaven has been continually positioned in heaven. There is no
doubt about the Lord Jesus’ rulership over the present creation, and over the next one.
NOAHIC COVENANT
APPLICATION
You cannot discern spiritual phenomena if you are not under the control of the Holy Spirit.
It is significant that the first thing John sees is the throne in heaven and the "Ancient of Days" seated there (cf.
Daniel 7:9-14).
The visible God is the Lord Jesus Christ - John 1:18, 6:46, 1 John 4:12. God the Father’s voice will be heard
later on.
Those who are one with Christ are promised to sit with Him on His throne ( 2 Timothy. 2:12; Revelation 2:2627, 3:21).
Christ has promised every believer "I will come again and receive you to myself that where I am, you may be
also" (John 14:3) and "thus we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
4:3 And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the
throne, in sight like unto an emerald.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The word “looked upon” horasis is a noun and not a verb horao as would be expected. If a noun replaces a
verb in the Greek it gives it great emphasis.
The One sitting in verses two and three is identified as the Lord God Almighty in verse eight.
He is described in terms of two precious stones which were the first and last stones in the breastplate of the
High Priest.
Around the throne was a rainbow the light green colour of an emerald, the rainbow of brilliant flashing gems
was a vivid reminder of the faithfulness of God. Genesis 9:11-17.
This rainbow, however completely encircled the throne of God which intimates that the ancient promise of the
covenant with Noah will stand forever. The Greek word for rainbow is a girl’s name Iris.
RAINBOWS
TWO STONES
The Meaning of Two Stones. John describes God in terms of glory and light. However, with careful study,
these things give a clearer picture than any human form or figure could present.
[a]
These two stones were first and last in the breast plate of the High Priest (Exodus 28:17-20).
Because Jesus is our High Priest, we are welcome to "boldly approach the throne" in heaven (Psalm 110:4;
Hebrews 2:17, 3:1, 4:14-16, 5:1-10, 7:26-27, 8:1-2, 6, 9:14-15, 10:10-14).
[b]
The stones in this breastplate were engraved with the names of the sons of Jacob on the sardius, or
ruby, was the name "Reuben" meaning "behold a Son." This speaks of the incarnation of Jesus in human
flesh.
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The last stone was the Jasper, which bore the name of "Benjamin" meaning "Son cf My right hand," a picture
of Christ glorified (Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:13).
It is interesting that Rachel first named Benjamin Benoni (Genesis. 35:18) meaning "Son of my sorrow."
[c]
The stone which speaks of Christ's first advent is blood red picturing the sacrifice of the cross. The
stone called jasper pictures Christ glorified and is crystal in colour and speaks of the glory of God (Revelation
21:11).
NOAHIC COVENANT
APPLICATION
The use of the noun horasis shows that John was absolutely overcome when he saw the throne.
He could only stand and stare and not take his eyes off the Lord.
We should be totally occupied with the person of Christ and should have no desire to look elsewhere.
The Emerald Rainbow. The third figure after the two stones pictures the welcome of the church in heaven and
is this emerald rainbow.
The original rainbow of Genesis 9:11-17 spoke of God's covenant with Noah and included "all flesh that is on
the earth." Never again would the earth be judged by a universal flood.
In addition, the emerald stone also in the High Priest's breastplate, stood for Levi, the priestly tribe.
The Levitical offerings of Leviticus 1-5 spoke of the work of Christ on the cross. Emerald is a colour of
propitiation through Christ. Because of Him we have "peace with God" (Romans 5:1; Ephesians 5:26-28).
Therefore in these first three verses, there is much comfort and instruction for us "on whom the ends of the
ages have come. Do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward". (Hebrews 10:35).
There is serious warning to our generation today to maintain hope of His coming.
Those who "shrink back" from this hope will lose great reward. (compare Hebrews 10:35-39 and 2 Timothy
4:8).
4:4 And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders
sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The persons around the throne are described in verse four. The term "seats" should be translated "thrones".
It must be seen that the elders are human, not angelic beings. “For they are seated on thrones and crowned
with gold crowns.” We notice that these elders have been clothed in the past [perfect tense of Periballo] with a
result that they continue to be clothed, a picture of eternal security.
The word for crown (stephanos) is the same as used of the believers reward in I Corinthians 9:25; I
Thessalonians 2:19; II Timothy 4:8; James 1;12; I Peter 5:4, which all reflect rewards for work done here on
earth. In contradistinction crowns are never promised to angels.
In the New Testament, elders as the highest officials in the church, do represent and are spiritual rulers of the
whole church (Acts 15:6; 20:28). Furthermore, only the church which is raptured before chapter four is
properly complete in heaven and eligible for reward at the judgment seat of Christ. In that case the crowns of
gold on the heads of the elders would seem to confirm the idea that these may be representative of the church
in glory.
APPLICATION
The figure 24 relates to the tribe of Levi being divided into twenty four courses of priests in David’s time - 1
Chronicles 24. The twenty four courses, as priests represented the whole.
We have the opportunity for rewards, but we also need to have put on white garments the imputed
righteousness of Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:21
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Here we see the centrality of Jesus Christ on the throne surrounded by 24 crowned elders. Christ should also
be the centre of our lives as we have been redeemed by Him and sit with Him in heavenly places.
4:5 And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire
burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The narrative continues with the throne being the centre of discussion, the word itself is mentioned no less
than twelve times in the whole chapter.
The "lightnings, and voices and thunders" depict an all Inspiring scene that prophetically relate God's
forthcoming judgments upon the earth. (Revelation 8:5;11:9, 16:18]
John's attention is also directed to seven lamps of fire which are seen burning before the throne. The word
"lamp" properly means "torch" as in 8:10, representing the fullness of the Holy Spirit (as in 1:4; 3:1; 5:6).
The seven spirits are again seen in Isaiah 11:1 which was given to Jesus Christ without measure.
The seven spirits, speaking of perfection of spirituality, are constantly before the throne of God as seen in the
verb eimi which indicates absolute status quo.
APPLICATION
The thunderings, lightning and voices give a portent of the coming storm that is to break upon rejecting
mankind, but the warning allows people to be saved as they see God’s grace provision of salvation in the midst
of the Tribulation period.
We have the perfect spirit with all the absolute characteristics as represented by the menorah inside us for
ever.
4:6 And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round
about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The apostle also sees a sea of glass like crystal before the throne. The sea nearly always spoke of the Gentile
nations, and here likely refers to the predominantly Gentile Church in heaven.
The translation four "beasts” is ambiguous for the word zoon means "living creatures". The Greek word for
"beasts " theria is not used in this context.
These "living creatures" are said to be "in the midst of" the throne which is something not said about anyone or
anything else in this chapter. Remember John is seeing a vision, and its content is confusing to him, and he is
doing the best he can with limited human language.
The eyes before and in front indicate genius and perfect knowledge of past and future.
APPLICATION
The sea of glass is a scene of the church at rest. It is seen as pure and as translucent as crystal.
The sea on earth can be unstable, the church on earth is often unstable, but there is no instability in heaven.
Again the throne on which our Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ sits is in the centre with both the still sea and the
living creatures around it.
Jesus Christ is the celebrity of eternity.
4:7 And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man,
and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Each one is different in appearance, and they manifest the characteristics of the cherubim of Ezekiel 1:10. “As for the
likeness of their faces, they four had the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the right side: and they four had the
face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an eagle”.
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As is common to make the English translation flow the word “was” has been added to the Greek words.
The four gospels described here are further portrayed in the four major colours in the Tabernacle and the High
Priests uniform which proves again the uniqueness of the Bible.
GOSPELS - THE FOUR
APPLICATION
We can compare the four living creatures to the four gospels which present Christ in four major aspects of His
person.
"Like as a lion:' represents His kingship as particularly emphasised by Matthew. "Like a calf:' that is, the
sacrificial animal (Hebrews 9:12, 19) reminds one of Mark's emphasis. "A face as a man" portrays Luke's
emphasis on the humanity of Christ, and "like a flying eagle" links Him with heaven as John sees here.
Remember that John writes his Gospel after Revelation and so these visions have an impact upon his work.
4:8 And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest
not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, LORD God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
These living creatures, who also seem to be associated with the rulership of God praise Him ceaselessly. Literally the
text reads "and respite they have not day and night". They have six wings like the angels in Ezekiel 1 and are reflector
angels or seraphs as well as cherubs.
The phrase which ends this verse “which was, and is, and is to come” in the Greek is “ho on kai ho en kai ho
erchomenos” literally “the one being and the one that was and the one coming”, that is, the Eternal one
APPLICATION
They first ascribe the divine attribute of holiness 'to God (Isaiah 6:3). The three-fold ascription to God is
accompanied by the words 'who was, and is, and is to come'
This is recognition of the fact that when God executes judgment His attribute of holiness is one of the means or
agencies which He employs. It also shows that God is eternal and his plan is eternal as well and will be
fulfilled.
4:9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever
and ever,
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
In this verse we continue with a description of the worship of God by the four living creatures.
They give glory and honour to God who is seated on the throne.
Glory and honour signify the recognition of the wonderful perfection of the Character of God.
They also offer thanks to God, referring to His gifts in creation and redemption.
APPLICATION
What do we do in the presence of Almighty God? Are we reflective enough, and respectful enough?
Do we treat Him in awe or are we flippant and lower Him to a status of an elder brother?
Christ lives for ever and ever. We are in union with Him and will reign forever with Him.
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4:10 The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever
and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Prostration on one’s face was a form of homage offered to gods and rulers in antiquity. It was a posture that
reflected humility, helplessness, devotion, and absolute obedience.
The giving of praise and glory to God by the four living creatures is met by corresponding worship by the
twenty-four elders. All join in holy worship to the Lord.
The elders however not only recognise the attributes of God but support their worship by acknowledging that
God is the sovereign Creator of the universe and, as such, is sovereign over it and all who dwell within it.
The elders who have been seated on their thrones (verse 4) rise and prostrate themselves before God. The
tense of the verb used here is future; "shall fall down”, "shall worship Him”, indicating that the worship is
coordinated by the two living groups, that is, the living creatures and the elders.
As a further act of homage the elders cast their crowns before God. This is a continuous act. They do not give their
crowns up permanently to Christ but they are again and again removed for the worship of God the Father. The cry of the
chorus is also continuous.
The word for crown, stephanos, comes from the word “stepho” which means to twine or wreathe. It implies an award or
prize in the public games or battlefield as a symbol of honour and victory.
This is in contrast to the word diadema which is a crown worn as a right rather than for works done.
JUDGMENT OF BELIEVERS
There are three types of judgment for believers in the Church Age.
(a)
Judgment of Sins:- The Lord Jesus Christ on the cross substituted the payment of all man's
sins. The penalty of sin is death. (Romans 6:23) There is therefore no judgment for those in Christ
Jesus. (Romans 8:1). The substitutionary death is given in 2 Corinthians 5:19-2 1, Galatians 3:13.
(b)
Judgment of Self:- We are told that if we judge ourselves we shall not be judged. Failure to
do so brings discipline. (1 Corinthians 5:1-5, 11:31, 32, 2 Corinthians 2:5-7, Hebrews 12:7, 1 John
1:9)
(c)
Judgment Seat of Christ:- This is the evaluation of the production of believers in heaven
during the period of tribulation on the earth to determine what deeds are divine good (Gold, Silver and
Precious Stones) or human good (Wood, Hay and Stubble). (1 Corinthians 3:11-15)
Divine Good -
Work done in the power of the Holy Spirit has permanent rewards.
Human Good - Work done in the power of the Sinful Nature is not acceptable to God - it is burnt off.
Human Good is classified as filthy rags in (Isaiah 64:6)
THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST
1.
The Judgment Seat of Christ eliminates any need for human evaluation of your Christian life (except
self judgment) (Romans 14:10). If Jesus Christ is going to judge you, you do not need to be judged by
Christians in time. Judging is therefore prohibited.
2.
The Judgment Seat of Christ is an evaluation of human and divine good. (2 Corinthians 5:10)
3.
The Judgment Seat of Christ is a time of loss or gain of reward, (1 Corinthians 3:11-16). It had nothing
to do with salvation, you appear in court in your resurrection body.
4.
At the Judgment Seat of Christ the believer can be denied reward but can never lose his salvation. (2
Timothy 2:12, 13)
5.
Backslidden believers have no reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ. (Hebrews 6:7-12)
6.
The Judgment Seat of Christ is illustrated by the famous athletic games in the ancient world. (1
Corinthians 9:24-27)
7.
Rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ is based on grace. (James 2:12, 13)
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APPLICATION
Do we recognise the authority of God in our lives and from whence any authority or power we have comes?
What is our attitude to worship?
Do we cast our crowns before him so to speak, or are we proud about what we are doing for the Lord and seek
praise for ourselves.
4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for
thy pleasure they are and were created.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The word “thelema” translated pleasure should be translated “because of Thy will”. A modern equivalent would
be that a person is detained at the Governors pleasure, showing the governor’s authority.
The attribution to Him is not only of the creation of all things, but the motivation for creating all things, as being
of His own will (literally, "on account of thy will they are and were created").
We note with the two times creation is referred to that we have both the active and passive voices in view.
GLORY
APPLICATION
His will is the cause of creation and He Himself is the Agent of it. Are we using the glory and power that has
been given to us or are we tied up in life and ineffective?
CONCLUSION
With his own eyes John beheld and comprehended the grandeur and blessedness of the heavenly scene
around the throne in this chapter. This narrative is given not merely to let us know how we shall feel when God
reveals to us His glory. But He desires us to enter now into what we shall have then. This glory is given to us
already. It is now ours by faith, then we shall have it in all its fullness.
notes
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CHAPTER FIVE
THE SCROLL AND THE LAMB
In Chapter 5 we see Jesus revealed as the "Lion of Judah," and "The Lamb of God"; it is He who alone holds
the rights of the "firstborn of God."
5:1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed
with seven seals.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The word “hand” does not occur in the original. Literally it should read “on the right of him that sat on the
throne”. Book is “biblion” which means a little book or scroll rather than “biblos” -a book or roll. Scrolls were
used up until the second century A.D. and made from the pith of papyrus from the Nile, they were pressed into
sheets about A 4 in size then glued into long rolls. Vellum (made from animal skin) was also used. Some of the
rolls were quite substantial, as while Jude, Philemon, or 2 and 3 John would take but one sheet, Luke or Acts
would be several metres long.
"Written inside and on the back" suggests completeness of the contents. This was called an Opistograph
(written behind). Sealed “katasphragizo” is a perfect passive participle where the normal word for seal
“sphragizo” has been strengthened by the word “kata” to make it intensive. “kata” means to a norm or standard
therefore this document has been well and truly sealed.
The figure behind the sealing with seven seals is drawn from a custom that was used in Roman civil law. In the
transfer of a man's property a document called “Mancipatio Testamentum” that is, "the last will in transferring
property” was drawn up in the presence of seven witnesses who put their seals to the document. A mediator
called a “Familae Emptor” was required by law who, as his name depicts was a purchaser for a family: He
completed the transaction. Christ stands as the Mediator of the deed that contains the inheritance of His saints
which in this case was purchased by His blood as shown in verses 6, 9, and 12.
We are not told in this chapter what the contents of the book were, but when the seals are broken in chapter
six the judgments of God are poured out upon the earth and therefore it could be called the book of judgments.
The seals are not broken until after the church is out of the way - Romans 8:1. When the seventh seal is
broken, the trumpets sound [Revelation 8:1] and when the seventh trumpet blows Christ is said to receive the
kingdoms of this world [Revelation 11:15].
APPLICATION
The title deeds are sealed up so that only the Lord Jesus Christ can open it. This reminds us that God's plan
for history was secured in eternity past awaiting the time that Christ would open the seals. [ Ezekiel 2:9-3:3,
Revelation 10:8-11]. God is in control of history both to fact and timing.
5:2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the
seals thereof?
KEY WORDS
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The endowed angel begins a search for one who is "worthy" to open the scroll. The meaning of “axios” is "equal to or
morally entitled" to open the book. The word “anoigo” indicates that it had been open in the past presumably at the time
of writing. This proclamation to every creature was too great for any mere man to make, and yet not becoming the Lamb
himself to utter this, as he will be the “worthy one”. It was therefore made by a strong angel with a loud voice
APPLICATION
The seven sealed scroll contains the judgments of God with His absolute characteristics behind it. The search is
therefore for one with absolute and perfect characteristics.
5:3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look
thereon.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The word “man” does not occur in the original. The word used is “ouden” which indicates not even one man, woman or
other beings such as angels. It was a thorough search amongst all created beings. No one was "able" or literally "having
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power" from “ounamis”, the verb of ability. The imperfect tense declares no one in creation ever had this power No angel,
no living man, none of the departed greats of history are even able to look into the book. The infinitive of purpose is seen
here in two verbs, to open for the purpose of reading what was on the scroll. God wants it read and understood.
APPLICATION
A question is asked by an angel if there was anyone that was worthy to open and loose the book of its seven seals. The
whole universe is searched, from heaven, on the earth, and in the underworld to find a person or thing which could open
the book. None were found. This failure to find any qualified person shows the complete moral inability of mankind and
the lack of the ultimate authority and ability of angels to deal with the problem of sin and its solution. There is only one
person who has the authority and it is the Lord God.
5:4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
John was weeping as he was looking through the door of heaven. This word is “klaio”, and it is loud and audible crying.
John wept because no one was found worthy in all of creation, in all of history. There is "none righteous no not one."
Weeping is a verb in the imperfect tense, active voice, indicative mood which means he kept on weeping.
WEEPING
APPLICATION
God is in control. Outside great grief, or extreme stress(where it is the release of stress hormones) weeping is generally
sinful and shows a lack of trust. Waiting in faith prevents weeping because there is the expectation of God’s provision.
Here John wept because of the fact of sin and that no man was worthy. He had hope that the Lord would open the book,
but was overwhelmed by the full realization of the sinfulness of mankind. He may also give way to despair that the book
may not be opened, but he will remain and wait.
He had been promised a review of future history in Revelation 4:1. Now it appears the promise is in jeopardy, and yet
there is hope and confidence that things will be seen clearly, but it will be through the grace provision of God, not the
goodness/worthiness of any mortal man. How often we doubt the promises of God when we look to the things of men.
John knew and loved the Lord Jesus Christ. The promises of God are perfect because God’s character is perfect and
what He says He will do. It is all about Him, and we ought never cease giving thanks for that fact.
5:5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath
prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Present tense imperative mood active voice of “klaio” is a command to stop bawling. This indicates that John has lost
control to some extent. He is refocused upon the Lord by the angel’s command. Lion of the tribe of Judah speaks about
the humanity of Christ. Genesis 49:9. In the inter-testament period, the lion became a symbol of Messiah (2 Esdras
12:31).
Judah is called a "lion's whelp." Jesus, the greatest Judean, is the lion. Root of David deals with His deity - Isaiah 11:1,
Matthew 22:42-43. In the captivities, the royal lineage of David seemed like a tree cut down. Yet out of that living stumproot came the Saviour. David’s God is Jesus Christ the eternal one. Christ "has overcome." The aorist indicative of Nikao
refers to His victory culminated at the cross. Note His words; "I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).
APPLICATION
You cannot get information while you are crying. Only Jesus Christ is able to judge as He alone has all the facts and by
his perfect character he is able and worthy to judge. Matthew 7:1-2. The only people we should judge is ourselves, or our
children, and in both cases it is to help and refocus the life on worthy goals.
He alone is "worthy" to open the book because He is the Creator-Redeemer (Colossians 1:15-16; Hebrews 1:1-3, 6-13).
He is able to receive the divine plan of history. As Creator He is the firstborn of creation, and as Redeemer He is the
firstborn of the new creation (Colossians 1:15, 18). Therefore He can know the contents, reveal them to us, and control
the events which are to come. There is one greater than King David who will fulfil all the promises to David as
enumerated in 2 Samuel 7:16 and Luke 1:32-33.
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5:6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood
a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth
into all the earth.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
In verse 6 the Lion whom John saw in verse 5 is now described as a Lamb standing. The perfect tense refers to a past
action with present results. The Lamb had been slain. “Sphazo” speaks of violent slaughter. Because the verb is
passive, it refers to His spiritual death on the cross. Christ was active in His physical death; He died physically of His own
free will with the statement, “Father into thy hands I dismiss my spirit.”
The normal N.T. word is “amnos”, used in John 1:29, 36 and 1 Peter 1:19 as the common word for the sacrificial lamb. In
Revelation, the word is “arnion”, used in the LXX (Septuagint) in Jeremiah 11:19. The first word suggests the lamb as
the type for sacrifice, the last as one already used. In heaven Christ will bear the marks of the cross (Zechariah 13:6).
It is unusual that He is standing as when Jesus entered heaven He was seated, a sign of finished work and acceptance.
Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:3,13; 8:1, 10:10-14. Only twice is He seen standing in heaven.
a. Acts 7:56, to receive Stephen at his stoning. b. Here, at the beginning of the Tribulation.
THE LAMB
The developing topic of the lamb shows how Jesus Christ is the central figure in all the Scriptures and how the inspired
writers of the Bible gradually developed the revelation of his character, work and glorification from a lamb to the King of
Kings and Lord of Lords.
APPLICATION
Here is the Meekness and Might of Jesus combined. To all who believe, He is ''The lamb of God, which takes away the
sin of the world" (John 1:29). He was slain in the past which is in the perfect tense which means he died in the past with
results that go on forever. Passive voice - he received death on the cross. This needs to be contrasted with the active
way in which he dismissed His spirit to physically die which is in the active voice, He did the dismissing of his physical
life.
His physical death was volitional (Matthew 27:50; John 10:11, 17-18), but the spiritual sacrifice was judicial (Psalm 22:1;
Matthew 27:46). The Lord Jesus Christ who remains seated through the Church Age in His High Priestly ministry, leaves
His throne at the Rapture, and remains standing, in complete command of the judgments of the Tribulation.
"Seven horns" speaks of omnipotence, or perfect power. Seven is the number of perfection, "horn" a symbol of power
(Deuteronomy. 33:17; 1 Kings 22:11; Psalm. 75:4; Zechariah 1:18). "Seven eyes" is then omniscience and
omnipresence. The point is that the Lamb is fit to judge the earth because He is all powerful, all knowing, ever present,
and has sacrificed Himself to redeem the world. "Seven spirits" goes back to 1:4 and Isaiah 11:1,2 as the perfect
manifestation of the Spirit of God. So the Lamb who is also the Lion claims His birthright. As He came once as a Lamb
for our sins, so He will come again as the Lion in judgment and vengeance.
5:7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
“He taketh” is the perfect active indicative of “lambano”¯, it is not the aorist but is a vivid dramatic picture of the actual
scene, “he has taken it.” Literally the text should read "He came and he has taken the book out of the right hand of him
that sat upon the throne”. The taking of the scroll is the signal for three outbursts of praise. The book lay on the open
hand of Him that sat on the throne for any to take who was found worthy. The Lamb takes it from the Father to show the
investiture into His universal and everlasting dominion as Son of man.
APPLICATION
This is one of the most climactic acts in the history of the world, for it assures the regaining of all that was lost at the Fall
of man. As the scroll is allowed to go to the Lamb it demonstrates yet again that the Father is totally satisfied with all that
the Son has done and that all judgment belongs to Him. John 5:22, 30, 9:39, 12:31.
5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb,
having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints.
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BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
"Harps" is “kitharan”, which we get guitar from. This was a common instrument of worship in the Old Testament. They
were used in the priestly choir (1 Chronicles 25:1,6; Psalm 33:2, 98:15). David was a master of the harp (1 Samuel
16:16-23). We might conclude that the use of musical instruments for worship was originated in heaven.
In addition to harps, these elders hold vials filled with incense, representing the prayers of the saints. The altar of incense
in the tabernacle represents our prayers ascending before God's throne (the Ark). As the Levitical priests offered
incense, so these angels bear our prayers up to God.
However, this is not angelic mediation nor prayers to angels. Christ alone is our mediator. (I Timothy 2:5). When we pray,
both the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ intercede for us. Romans 8:16 ,27, 34
THE GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE
Scripture - Exodus 30:1 -10
The golden altar of incense was located just outside the Holy of Holies and represents intercessory prayer. The altar was
made of gold overlaying wood and was in the form of a crown.
The priest would go to the brazen altar, pick up coals, pass through the holy place and place the coals into the crown.
Incense was then sprinkled onto the coals and the fumes coming up from the incense represented prayer to God.
By taking coals from the brazen altar it showed that the basis for effective prayer is the death of Christ.
The unbeliever cannot pray effectively except for accepting Christ as saviour. The only person who could obtain the
coals was a priest representing a believer.
The crown is also significant. The cross must come before the crown, the crown also speaking of Christ the King priest
after the order of Melchisedec.
Fire spoke of judgment, the judgment of the cross being the basis for effective prayer.
The Incense which was put on the altar contained four ingredients which speak of the work of Christ.
(a)
Stukti - liquid from a gum tree representing the Father who is the recipient of prayer.
(b)
Onoika - shell ground up, the grinding representing judgment. When burnt the shell gave off a perfume
indicating propitiation.
(c)
Galbanin - the fat of a plant showing prosperity and representing the resurrection of Christ.
(d)
Frankincense - a white gum used in crowning kings - representing the session of Christ.
APPLICATION
Prayers offered in the Spirit are recorded and kept in heaven, they are a memorial to the grace of God. How surprised
will those be who arrive in heaven and see the record of their many prayers they thought God never answered.
Let us remember judgment is God’s work. “Vengeance is mine I will repay says the Lord, the Lord shall judge his people.
It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Hebrews 10:30-31. “Our God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews
12:29.
5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou
wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
They are said to sing a "new song." The word "new" - “kainos” - means of new quality.
used of buying slaves in the slave market.
The word “agorazo”, which is
Revelation is the book of new things: There is the promise of a new name. 2:17. A new Jerusalem. 3:12, 21:2. This new
song. 5:9, 14:3. New heavens and earth. 21:1. All things made new. 21:5.
Their song is based upon the redemptive work of the Lamb, as in verses 9 and 10 this work is stated in three different
tenses. There is definite atonement provided for all; "thou wast slain" for, as the text states, the past atonement is for
every person "from every tribe - Philippians 2:5-10, 1 John 2:1-2.
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MUSIC
THE TESTIMONIES OF THE PERFECTION OF CHRIST
REDEMPTION
APPLICATION
He paid the price to take us out of the slave market of sin. It is good to sing of the great work of the Lord for us. The lyrics
of any song of praise and worship are important, not the music alone. The lyrics appeal to the intellect whilst the melody
goes to the emotions. When you have melody with word that are not doctrine then you have nothing. Hymns found in the
Bible are doctrine. Music is not found in the Scriptures but the words are.
5:10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The verb made is in the aorist active indicative showing that we are made a king priest at a point in time and the action is
factual as seen in the indicative mood. Each member of this true kingdom is a priest unto God, with direct access to him
at all times. There is a present relationship provided in a past redemption (verse 10), "we are kings and priests unto
God”. 1 Peter 2:5-10.
APPLICATION
God has done the work and we receive the benefits of his wonderful and perfect work. There is a future promise based
upon the past redemption "we shall reign on the earth”. Here the reference is to the participation of the redeemed in the
millennial kingdom in some form, as the narrative clearly states we reign “on the earth”. Romans 5:17
5:11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders:
and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Now the myriads of angels join in the swelling chorus. The phrase ten thousand times ten thousand is murais, murias.
The heavenly host is without number, "thousands of thousands." The fact that eimi, the verb of absolute status quo is in
the imperfect tense shows that there always are an infinite number of worshippers of the glory of the Lord.
APPLICATION
There are an infinite number of angels in the heavenly chorus of worship, and when we worship we join with them. The
angelic host sang at creation. We will sing with them forever.
5:12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and
strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
To the lamb are ascribed seven rightful possessions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
To Him belongs power. 1 Corinthians 1:24 He is "Christ the power of God."
Riches. 2 Corinthians 8:9 "Though He was rich yet for your sakes He became poor." Ephesians. 3:8 Paul
taught "the unsearchable riches of Christ."
Wisdom I Corinthians 1:24 "Christ the wisdom of God." Colossians 2:3 "In Whom are hidden all the treasures of
wisdom."
Strength. He is the strong man of Luke 11:22, Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Him who strengthens
me."
Honour. Philippians 2:11 To Him every knee will bow, every tongue confess.
Glory John 1:14 "We beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth."
Blessing. Ephesians. 1:3 We have received "Every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ".
APPLICATION
The angels do not directly address the Lamb as did the elders, but they give to Him a sevenfold of praise. The angels
differ however, as they merely celebrate the glory of the Lamb without explaining why He is worthy of these praises.
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5:13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea,
and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth
upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The chorus is joined by all creation. To God and the Lamb, eternal deity and perfect humanity, belong "blessing and
honour and glory and dominion forever and ever." It is of interest that the word for power in this verse is different from
that in verse 12 with the word Kratos which emphasises ruling power in this verse and dunamis showing inherent power
in the previous verse.
APPLICATION
With the deliverance of the redeemed comes the deliverance of creation from bondage (Romans 8:18-22). In the
thirteenth verse every creature in God's creation joins in the song of praise. At this juncture of the descriptive text one
feels desperately inadequate and unprepared to try and explain the immense depth of this scene which John both
witness and heard. All bow down before the Lamb in acknowledgment of His death and resurrection (Phil. 2:8-11).
5:14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth
for ever and ever.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
The universal chorus ends in a crashing crescendo of praise.
In the silence that follows, the four living creatures
respond, "Amen," that is, "I believe it" It is in the imperfect active indicative showing that the speech is continuous.
This is the adoration that closes the whole service of praise to the One upon the throne and to the Lamb. As in
Revelation 4:10 so here the representatives of the redeemed bow in worship.
Pliny said that the Christians sing a song to Christ as to God. Here however he is worshipped by the whole universe.
This is also stated in Philippians 2:10, “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things
in earth, and things under the earth;”
APPLICATION
Climaxing this awesome yet splendid/awesome scene the four living creatures (4:6-9) pronounce their homage with an
"amen" to the One who is worthy to be praised in time and throughout all eternity.
CONCLUSION
The seven-sealed book is the divine disposition of human affairs, the title deed of the kingdoms of this world.
As the "firstborn of all creation," Jesus has the right of:The Rule of the universe.
The Priesthood of the universe.
The Inheritance of the universe.
Jesus Christ is worthy to bring the judgments of the Tribulation for two main reasons:
He was crucified.
He purchased back what Adam lost at the fall, dominion of all creation.
The Tribulation is the final campaign of Jesus Christ in conquering the kingdoms of this world.
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CHAPTER SIX
INTRODUCTION TO THE TRIBULATION
Chapter 6 commences the next section in the Book of the Revelation. The section from chapters 6 to 19 gives a more
detailed overview account of the period known as the Tribulation than any other part of the Bible.
Leaving the scene of the Church in heaven of the previous two chapters we now return to the Lord’s focus upon the
Jewish people – and we enter the last week of Daniel’s 70 weeks – the final week of the Jewish dispensation/age.
It is of great importance to differentiate between the Church and Israel, as each has specific and distinct parts to play in
the Plan of God through time, and God picks up Israel firmly at the centre of the plan again through these terrible years.
CHURCH AND ISRAEL
1.
It is critical to the evaluation of the Bible to distinguish between the Church and Israel.
2.
The Jews started with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3).
The Church started at Pentecost. (Acts 2; Galatians 3:26-28)
3.
Israel was promised blessings on earth. (Deuteronomy 28:1-14)
The Church is promised blessings in heavenly places. (Ephesians 1:3; Heb 3:1)
4.
Israel's relationship to God was based on a Covenant. (Genesis 17:7,8)
The Church's relationship to God is based on new birth. (John 1:12; 1 Peter 1:23)
5.
Israel's prophecy is mainly in the Old Testament.
Prophecy of the Church is only in the New Testament.
6.
Israel worshipped at Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:1-4)
The Church worships where two or three are gathered together in Christ's name. (Matthew 18:20)
7.
Israel lived under the law. (Ezekiel 20:10-12)
The Church is under grace (John 1:17; Romans 6:14).
8.
Israel's destiny is with Palestine. (Isaiah 60:18-21 )
The Church when completed will be removed from the earth.(l Thessalonians 4:13-18)
9.
Christ is King and Messiah to Israel.
Christ is Head and Bridegroom to the Church.
10.
Israel contained Jews only.
The Church is made up of both Jews and Gentiles.
SUMMARY
To summarise chapters 6-19 the order of events are as follows:
[a]
The commencement of judgments is recorded in chapter 6,
[b]
The interruption in chapter 7 where evangelism in the Tribulation is addressed.
[c]
The order of judgments is resumed in chapters 8-9.
[d]
Another large parenthesis gives more detailed information in chapters 10-15.
[e]
A return to the sequence of judgments in chapter 16
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[f]
Finally more detail concludes the section in chapters 17-19 ending with the Second Advent.
THE TRIBULATION OR TIME OF JACOB'S TROUBLE
General Scripture (Revelation Chapters 6-19)
1.
Limits
(a)
Start - After the Rapture at the signing of the treaty between Israel and the Beast or the Antichrist.
(b)
Finish - 2nd Advent of Jesus Christ.
2.
Length of Age – approximately 7 years. (Daniel 9:27) This is the final section of the Jewish Age.
3.
Means of Salvation - faith in Christ.
4.
Scripture - completed Canon.
5.
Evangelists - a special race - the Jews who have been scattered throughout the earth and speak almost every
tongue - 144,000 evangelists (Revelation 7). The tribe of Dan does not appear in this list - it was the tribe that
led in idolatry.
6.
Major judgments - the Tribulation is a succession of judgments culminating in the 2nd Advent.
7.
At death believers - Heaven (2 Corinthians 5:8)
8.
At death unbelievers - Torments, Hades.
9.
Priesthood - specialised priesthood.
10.
The Law - no Law (Matthew 5:17)
11.
Holy Spirit - assists believers but does not indwell.
12.
Environment - sinful
13.
Satan - in Heaven or on earth for first 31/2 years, on earth only for second 31/2 years (Revelation 12:9)
14.
Rebellion - Armageddon, “one worldism” politically and religiously.
15.
Spirituality- resting in the promises of God.
16.
Three sets of Judgments
(a)
Seal Judgments (Revelation 6 and 8)
(b)
Trumpet Judgments (Revelation 8)
(c)
Bowl Judgments (Revelation 15,16)
17.
The last 7 years of the Post Flood Civilisation.
18.
Anti-Semitism at its maximum malice from Satan himself who knows his time is short.
Another important area is the length of the Tribulation which is stated as seven years in point two above. This period is
also known as Daniel’s 70th week.
DANIEL'S 70 WEEKS
1.
Scripture:- Daniel 9:24-27
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"Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make
an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity and to bring in everlasting righteousness and to seal up
the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy. " (Daniel 9:24)
2.
What is a week?
In the ancient world both Greek and Latin philosophers knew the week, as the week of years. In this system one
week equals 7 years. Thus seventy weeks equal 70 x 7 years = 490 years.
3.
What Type of Year?
The year used in scripture of Daniel's time was the Jewish year which Abraham had preserved from his
Chaldean home. Abraham's year was the lunar year and consisted of 360 days. The period stated then is 70 x 7
x 360 days giving a total of 176 400 days.
4.
Who are Involved?
'Thy people, thy holy city' refer to the Jews and Jerusalem or Judea. We therefore have a period of 490 years
involving the Jews and Jerusalem.
5.
When Does this Period End?
In the second half of verse 24 the end of the period is given by six separate events:
(a)
to finish the transgression - the start of the Millennium at the 2nd advent.
(b)
make an end to sins - perfect environment starts at the 2nd advent and continues for a thousand
years. (Romans 8:19-21)
(c)
make reconciliation - since A.D. 70 the Jews have been dispersed amongst the nations, they will
continue to be dispersed until Jesus Christ calls them back to their land at the 2nd advent.
(d)
bring in everlasting righteousness - the millennium starts a period of everlasting righteousness with the
reign of Christ, this everlasting righteousness continues into the eternal future. This period starts at the 2nd
advent.
(e)
to seal up the vision and prophecy - the 2nd advent fulfils the Abrahamic, Palestinian and Davidic
covenant and this prophecy.
(f)
to anoint the most Holy - at the 2nd advent Jesus is anointed King of Israel.
The terminal point in all six statements can therefore be said to be the 2nd advent of the Lord Jesus Christ or
the midnight hour of (Matthew 25:6). We thus have a period from (Daniel 9:24) of 490 Jewish years each having
360 days terminating at the 2nd Advent.
In the next three verses the period of 70 weeks is carefully divided into three sections.
"Know therefore and understand that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build
Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks (49 years) and three score and two weeks (434
years):the streets shall be built again, and the wall even in troubled times. " (Daniel 9:25)
We have therefore three periods into which the 70 weeks is split - 7 weeks + 62 weeks leaving a balance of 1
week. Expressed in years we have 49 years + 434 years + 7 years.
6.
What is the Starting Point?
There were three edicts issued by Persian princes dating after the time of Daniel and relating to the Jews
returning to their homeland, they were:(a)
The edict of Cyrus in 538 B.C. to rebuild the house of the Lord (Temple) (Ezra 1).
(b)
The edict of Darius in 520 B.C. to rebuild the temple which is found in (Ezra 6) Darius' edict was to
confirm Cyrus' previous order, the temple works having been stopped after the death of Cyrus.
(c)
The edict of Artaxerxes Longimanus to rebuild Jerusalem in 445 B.C. (Nehemiah 2)
Inspection of Daniel 9:25 shows that the critical commandment which starts the 70 weeks clock ticking was the
order to rebuild Jerusalem not the temple. The correct order was the edict of Artaxerxes in 445 B.C. The
practice of Persian Kings was to issue such orders on their New Years day, the 1st of the month of Nisan. Using
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the services of the Astronomer Royal in London, Sir Robert Anderson, was able to determine that the 1st Nisan
of 445 B.C. occurred on 14th March 445 BC. We therefore have the following date:14th March 445 B.C. -- 490 years -- 2nd Advent
It also states that Jerusalem will be rebuilt with its walls completed after 49 years (7 weeks) in difficult
circumstances. There is considerable biblical evidence that Jerusalem was rebuilt under very difficult
circumstances.
"And after three score and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for Himself. " (Daniel 9:26a)
7.
Who is the Messiah? - Jesus Christ!
In Luke's gospel on entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, just prior to his crucifixion, the crowd welcomed
Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah (Luke 19:38) this being the only time when he was so called by the mass
of the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
8.
When was He cut off?
According to (Luke 3.- 1 ) Jesus Christ was baptised in the 15th year of Tiberius Caesar. As his ministry was
three years in length, the entry into Jerusalem occurred in the 18th year of Tiberius. Searches of literature
including, 'The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire' by Gibbon, has shown that Tiberius became Caesar in 14
A.D. Entrance into Jerusalem was therefore on Palm Sunday 32 A.D. Again by computation the date of Palm
Sunday 32 A.D. was 10th Nisan or 6th April A.D. 32, the crucifixion occurring on 9th April A.D. 32.
9.
How Accurate is Scripture?
If scripture is "God breathed" and inspired by God, (2 Timothy 3:16), we should find correlation between the 483
Jewish years to the cutting off of the Messiah and the time between 14th March 445 B.C. and 6th April AD 32.
The time between these two dates is 476 years and 24 days. Total number of days are therefore as follows:476 years x 365 days = 173,740
14/3 to 6/4 =
24
Leap years =
116
TOTAL =
173,880 days.
Jewish time:483 x 360 = 173,880 days
Scripture is totally accurate. Our scale now shows:14th March 445 B.C. -- 483 years -- 6th April 32 A.D.
The following questions now arise:
Has the second advent of Jesus Christ occurred? - No.
Is it longer than 7 years since Jesus Christ rode into Jerusalem? - Yes.
Therefore there must be a gap between the 69th week and the 70th week.
445 B.C. -- 483 years -- 32 A.D. -- GAP -- 7 years -- 2nd Advent
This gap has been filled in God's view of history by the church age. (see topic of Intercalation).
The 70th week which is 7 years in length therefore starts at the end of the church age - at the signing of the
peace treaty after the Rapture. These 7 years of the 70th week are the worst 7 years in the history of man - the
tribulation.
10.
CONCLUSION The course of this 70th week is denoted in (Daniel 9:26b, 27). "and the people of the prince (the
dictator of the Revived Roman Empire) that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary, and the end
thereof shall be with a flood, and until the end of the war, desolations are determined.
And be (the dictator) shall confirm the covenant (mutual defence pact) with the many (the Jews) for one week (7
years) and in the midst of the week (31/2 years) be shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for
the overspreading of abominations be shall make it desolate, (this refers to the erection of a statue in the rebuilt
temple in Jerusalem, see Revelation 13:11-15). even until the consummation (the 2nd advent) and that
determined shall be poured upon the desolate (the dictator will be judged and cast into hell, see Revelation
19:20)."
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MATTHEW 24 AND REVELATION 6&7
It should also be noted that there is a close comparison between Matthew 24 and Revelation 6 & 7
MATTHEW 24
False Christ - v 4,5
Wars - v6
Famines 7a
Death v 7b-8
Martyrs - v9
World wide chaos - v 10-13
Worldwide evangelism - v 14
REVELATION 6 and 7
Rider of the White Horse - v 1-2
The Red Horse - v 3-4
The Black Horse - v 5-6
The Green Horse - v7-8
Martyrs under the Altar - v 9-11
World wide chaos v 12-17
Worldwide Evangelism - chapter 7
SUMMARY OF REVELATION CHAPTER 6
The Four Horsemen verses. 1-8
The first four seals are judgments which are pictured in the form of horses.
In Zechariah 1:7-11 and 6:1-8 we see the basis for John's vision. As with the four living beings, the vision is not exactly
the same. The Zechariah vision is given new form and clarity by the vision that John sees. These horsemen are called
four spirits that patrol the earth.
It should also be noted that the destructive forces released here are consistent with the symbols in Jeremiah 14:12,
24:10, and 42:17 of sword, famine, pestilence, and earthquake as methods of Divine Judgment.
The Martyrs and Rebellious Man verses 9-17
The other two seals in this passage deal with martyrs waiting for the Lord to avenge their deaths and the greatest
catastrophe in history where a quarter of the world population perishes as a result of divine judgment using nature.
EVALUATION
6:1 And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the
four beasts saying, Come and see.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
When Christ breaks the seal, one of the cherubim around the throne commands ''come''.
The "voice of thunder" speaks of coming judgment; the command is to the first horseman.
“Erchomai” is in the imperative mood, present tense, nominative case, second person singular. John is ordered.
There is no “and see” in the original in verses 1, 3, 5, or 7 as it is understood in the command “come”.
The instruction to come is addressed to John. He was requested to approach and see with his own eyes what was
disclosed in the portion of the scroll which is now starting to be unrolled.
THE SEAL JUDGMENTS
The seven seal judgments occur as the first group of three judgments in the Tribulation
1.
White Horse of Peace. (Revelation 6:1- 2)
2.
Red Horse of War. (Revelation 6:3- 4)
3.
Black Horse of Famine. (Revelation 6:5- 6)
4.
Pale Horse of Death. (Revelation 6:7- 8)
5.
Persecution. (Revelation 6:9-11)
6.
Destruction. (Revelation 6:12-17)
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7.
Seven Trumpet Judgments. (Revelation 8:1)
In Daniel 12:9 we see the concept of "sealing up" the prophecy of future history revealed in Daniel.
In this chapter we see the first six seals opened to reveal judgments.
PROPHETICAL SIGNS OF THE TRIBULATION
APPLICATION
The Lord Jesus Christ, by opening the sealed book which John had been crying about, confirmed that He is perfect and
He is all powerful and has authority over all things, and that his authority will ensure that even though great evil is
unfolding, that all will work out well. The living creatures give an order to John alone to come and see what is going to
happen in the Tribulation.
John will record all he clearly sees in the best way he can, but there are some things he does not see, and some things
he will be told not to write. Remember as we read this, these are the things God wants revealed now, but to hide the truth
from Satan, some things will not be seen with 100% clarity until they occur.
Let us be obedient and confident in our task and our Saviour-Lord as John is here.
6:2 And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him:
and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The fact that this is not the Lord Jesus Christ is shown by the crown that he is wearing on his head.
The crown on the head of this rider is a “stephanos” crown which is one given to a victor.
In contrast the Lord Jesus Christ will wear a “diadem” which is one worn by right as a king.
The figure that enters the Tribulation conquering and to conquer is the Antichrist – the false Christ.
Just as the Father gave all His authority to the Son so shall Satan give all his authority to the Antichrist.
The False Prophet will play the role of the counterfeit Holy Spirit. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to call men to worship
Christ. The ministry of the False Prophet is to call people to unity of world religions as a device to lead to sole worship
the Antichrist as the only permitted religion of the last half of this period. John sees a white horse whose rider is armed
with a bow and given a crown. His object is to conquer rapidly and ruthlessly.
It is noted that conquering is the participle form which is followed by the subjunctive mood of conquer showing that the
conquering is potential and could possibly be translated, conquering that he might conquer. The subjunctive mood is the
reminder that he doesn’t have it all his own way. Some nations remain outside his rule. Daniel 11:40-45.
[a]
Historically the custom of a conqueror riding a white horse dates back to Roman times. Modern victors
such as Napoleon were also pictured on white horses.
This is the Antichrist who imitates a Roman general’s victory - Revelation 19:11.
[b].
The bow symbolises military might. Jeremiah 51:56; Psalm 46:9; Hosea. 1:5.
In 62 A.D. a Roman army was defeated by Parthian bowmen.
[c]
The crown combined with conquest speaks of insatiable power lust. Daniel. 11:36-39
ANTICHRIST
The Antichrist is of both natural and supernatural origin.
[a]
In his humanity he is an old Roman Empire descendent - Gentile [Daniel 9:24-27].
[b]
Angelically his father is Satan as a true reflection of the promise in Genesis 3:15, which contrasts the “seed of
the Woman”, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the “seed of Satan”, who is the Antichrist.
Through having Satan as his father he will inherit supernatural powers. 2 Thessalonians 2:9.
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The word “work” in this verse is “energo” which means energising. This means the Antichrist will be energised by Satan
and his apparent spiritual/other worldly power will come from that source.
Daniel 8:23-25 and Daniel 11:36-39 show that he thinks of himself above God, exactly as his father did in Isaiah 14:1215.
The method of conquest in verse 2 does not portray open hostilities, for peace is not removed from the earth until the
second seal is opened. Therefore, our Lord will permit such a one to come, deceiving the world so that they will say
"peace and safety''. I Thessalonians. 5:1-3.
Conquering to conquer. The present active participle here indicates that he keeps on conquering in order that he may
[subjunctive mood] conquer the world, but he never completely gets there. He is unable to control the entire earth
although he tries to and is always fighting to try to maintain the power he has been given.
This vision goes back to the book of Daniel and the ten nation/region confederation that the Anti-Christ wins control over
by war and intrigue. The dictator comes to an ascendancy by conquering three nations in a ten nation confederacy after
which he gains control of all ten. He acts as if he rules the entire world, but other equally self centred people oppose him
until the end. Satan is not a good team player – and neither are his people!
APPLICATION
As the false God - man and as Satan’s son he will always have access to the demonic realm and he will use all the
demonic powers to try to succeed in ruling the earth and he will nearly get there at times in the 7 year period.
Ultimately the counterfeit son will accept the offer which the genuine Son rejected, the kingdoms of the world. - Matthew
4:8-10.
Because he is indwelt by Satan he will appear to be invincible. Those who submit to his authority will be given authority
and power in his kingdom, but there are always limits, for he hates the very men who worship him. Also, he is not
invincible, nor does he have total power, for the satanic system fights amongst itself as well as against God. Narcissism
does not make for good cooperation! Self centeredness makes for poor team work! Satan’s people self destruct and
then the Lord judges and condemns them all! There is victory here – but not as Satan and his people think!
The commencement of his kingdom is seen in the first seal, though full control of the majority of the world does not occur
until the middle of the Tribulation in Revelation Chapter 13, when he destroys the world religion of the Tribulation and
makes the world worship him.
God is however in control of history. One of the great judgments on the world will be from this internationalist. Man truly
gets what he has asked for in this man, for he is the summation of the godless man.
Whilst internationalism is anti God, as demonstrated by the destruction of the Tower of Babel, God will use this as a
method of judging the world. Man will be judged by receiving exactly what the unsaved desire – a world with God banned
from it for a time.
6:3 And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see. 6:4 And there went
out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and
that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Deuteros - second is the basis for the word Deuteronomy which is the second rendering of the law.
This is the first of three wars in the Tribulation, the second is in the middle of the Tribulation and the third is the
Armageddon campaign which occurs immediately before the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Unlike the first rider which represented conquering by political means, this rider has a "great sword" indicating intense
fighting, man against man. The purpose is that they should kill one another. The word "kill" would be more correctly
translated "butcher". Great carnage is pictured here.
APPLICATION
With the second seal, John sees the red horse. The rider is given authority to take peace from the entire world.
Already we see the breakdown of society beginning. Along with the cry, "peace and safety" (1 Thessalonians 5:3) we are
seeing the rise of rebellion, revolution, and religious and racial civil wars. Satan’s “peace” is deceptive and destructive.
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The devil's dream of a utopia without Christ will end this way, for self centeredness will always produce greater and
greater evil, never peace and happiness. Satan’s fruit is always evil; he cannot produce the good he claims to be able
to.
There will be wars and rumours of wars until the Millennium. The universal peace of which the world dreams without the
Prince of Peace will be deceptive times of short duration, for without Jesus as Lord it is a delusion - Matthew 24:6.
This shows clearly a major war at the beginning of the tribulation period, which would require a massive arms build-up in
the years prior.
The world wars have been planned by the enemy for over a century. Many pagan and other prophets have stated that
there would be three World Wars. It is as if Satan is trying, through his pagan prophets to prepare people for his
rulership. The first two world wars have been completed. The third world war will apparently commence in the Tribulation
and bring about a form of world government. Nuclear warfare and the ensuing holocaust is officially the great fear of
politicians in this era and they will make a deal with the devil to avoid it, but all they do is guarantee that it will occur and
involve all unsaved mankind.
6:5 And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a
black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The black horse is seen as famine in Lamentations 4:8-9, 5:10, Jeremiah 4:28.
The balances picture the concept of rationing by weight. This pictures universal shortages for the poorer people.
POPULATION GROWTH AS A CAUSE OF THIS
The incidence of famines and the world population explosion are two sides of the same coin. Even allowing for miracle
strains of staple crops which increase yields substantially, the war against the world population explosion is not being
won and by the year 2010 the “One World” politicians were predicting starvation within seven years unless “mankind
joins together to solve the problem!” This sounds like the satanic plan, and we suspect it is.
The current world population is therefore over 7 billion and could even be doubling every 20 years now. It wont – but
only through the collapse of populations and massive levels of disease and starvation.
FOOD PRODUCTION.
The following facts are pertinent:
(a)
To improve nutrition, food production required quadrupling between 1975 and 2000.
(b)
To maintain the present poor nutrition, 10-20 million hectares of new farm land has to be developed annually.
(c)
Every day 10,000+ people throughout the world die of starvation or malnutrition.
(d)
Most of the good arable land in the world is under pasture or being tilled at the present.
Famines and food production are greatly affected by weather conditions, which most meteorologists agree are in an
unstable and unpredictable state at this time. Seasons are totally out of kilter in Australasia and the Pacific, and areas
once productive are becoming unusable, and the rains unpredictable.
The thinking person seeing major increases in world population, and the food production data, must come to the
conclusion that famines are inevitable. In fact, in the l980s we saw increased famines, especially in Africa, generating
such efforts as Band Aid and Sport Aid.
With the so called “Greenhouse Effect” people are being encouraged to afforest land: whilst population expansion
requires increased arable land to be brought into food production. There have been attempts by the UN to preach
“Climate Change” and changes to growing of food that can only lead to further famine. This is baffling unless it is policy.
In 1975 the World Food Conference in Rome stated that the annual famine toll in that year was argued to be 57 million,
or 156,000 every day of the year. Those starving in 1975 were three times the number who were starving in 1970. In
the Food Conference in Manila in 1978 it was stated that one baby in three will never reach the age of five because of
malnutrition. New “initiatives have assisted but simply increased population and so increased starvation due to the
excessive birth rate in poor countries.
The United Nations states that we are in the grips of the worst food problems the world has ever seen and they are
calling for more centralized power to deal with these problems and more centralized power to deal with “security issues”.
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The only disposable food left is in countries such as Europe, the United States and Australasia.
Ninety percent of the world's food is grown in areas where a 5% change in rainfall would render them less productive.
APPLICATION
The colour is chosen to symbolize famine and suffering which generally follows war. Satan’s policy calls for chaos, never
solutions to problems, for it is out of chaos that desperation grows and he believes he then can both hurt and rule men.
The opening of the third seal reveals a judgment of famine that is to come upon the world.
Even by natural increase in population there is increasing famine and death. This problem will be exacerbated by the war
of the previous two verses.
6:6 And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures
of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Greek historian Herodotus states that the choinix or measure of wheat was a soldier’s daily supply of food. A
denarius was the daily wage of a labourer. Matthew 20:2. Therefore a working man will be unable to support his family in
this period. Conversely the oil and wine were the rich people’s food as well as medicines. Only the poor are adversely
affected by the famines, the wealthy continue in their corrupt life styles, and they are the class that Satan’s man draws
upon for his leaders and fellow persecutors of mankind.
It is interesting that during the reign of Domitian, there was just such a famine. Originally, an edict was given to convert
vineyards to grain fields. However, the vine-growers association became so riotous that he rescinded the edict and
threatened to punish any who did not cultivate their vineyards. Grain was scarce, but wine was superabundant.
Three primary crops of Israel were grain, wine, and oil. Deuteronomy 7:13, 11:14, 28:51; Hosea 2:8, 22.
One of the judgments in the five cycles of discipline is to eat bread "by weight". Leviticus. 26:26; Ezekiel 4:16.
The quart measure was considered one man's daily ration, and the Denarius was one day's wage. Therefore, a man will
work a whole day to earn enough for one day's food, with nothing to pay rent, power, clothes, etc.
Normally a "penny", the Roman denarius would buy eight measures of wheat or twenty-four of barley.
It is noted that the phrase “hurt not” is in the subjunctive mood which shows that this is a possibility, and up to the rider
on the black horse, as it is in the second person singular.
The prohibition is therefore addressed to a nameless rider representing famine. Even in judgment Satan’s team must not
overstep their boundaries. God remains in control. Judgment is weighed out here or all mankind would be able to be
killed before the Lord’s return. Satan wants to achieve this, but is hindered by God from his evil desires.
APPLICATION
Under famine conditions the same wage will buy only one measure of wheat or three of barley. In other words, there will
be one-eighth of the normal supply of food.
An ironic note is added in the phrase, "hurt thou not the oil and wine", as these luxury food items will not be in short
supply, but of course most people will not be able to afford them.
It would appear that as luxuries will be easy to get, necessities hard to obtain, the rich class would not be harmed, but
only what the poorer class of people want of the prime necessities of life.
It is also noted that the oil and the wine were used for medicinal purposes in the ancient world so that famine could be
seen as being tempered by grace that the medicines are still available.
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6:7 And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see. 6:8 And I
looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And
power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death,
and with the beasts of the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The fourth horse is a ghastly, ashen colour. This represents pestilence and death. The riders name is Death, and he is
followed by Hell.
The colour of the horse is "yellowish green". The Greek word “chloros” used here is where we get our English word
chlorine. This is an unhealthy green colour.
With the current world population probably over one billion unbelievers will die of famine. One of the grim reapers is
hades and this indicates that only unbelievers will perish under judgment in this holocaust.
It is also noted that an additional one-third are killed later as recorded in Revelation 9:8. Adding these two fractions
together it represents the greatest destruction of human life ever recorded in the history of the world.
Notice again the Old Testament figures of "sword and famine and pestilence and wild beasts." By these one-quarter of
the surviving earth's population will be killed. cf Ezekiel 14:21.
The difference between the two words translated beast in verses 7 and 8 should be noted with that in verse 7 dealing
with a benign living being of the angelic realm while the word in verse 8 refers to literal wild beasts.
In addition the word for sword in verse 8 is a different sword, the Rhomphia or long broad sword to that in verse 3 the
Machaira or famous short sword of the Romans. The long sword scythed down many people at a single blow.
The Rhomphaia was invented by the Thracians and is used in this context probably for capital punishment, and for
scything down enemies, whereas the Machaira in verse 3 deals with hand to hand close combat in a military action.
Hades followed the pale horse around. This is in the imperfect tense which means kept on following the horse around so
that all unbelievers went directly to hell to await lasting judgment.
APPLICATION
This introduces the fourth horseman, the horse of death who is followed by Hades.
When food becomes scarce wild animals/creatures which normally would leave man alone will start to attack man for
food.
Here is mass destruction by starvation and then by medical plagues, and those being judged in their unbelief are first
caught by death then cast into hades.
This judgment is therefore for unbelievers only as Hades is the destination of unbelievers after death.
Here is evidence that death does not end all, for the soul goes to Hades, and eventually the unsaved person will be
judged and finally join their “god” Satan himself and be cast into the lake of fire - Revelation 20:10-14.
6:9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word
of God, and for the testimony which they held:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The people who are persecuting believers will be described in Revelation 17 – the organization of Satanic religion Ecclesiastical Babylon. We see here the many new believers who are killed by the followers of the Anti-Christ. They
have been punished by war, famine and disease, but their punishment is just, for they have previously slain many of the
saints. This is also a reminder that after the departure of the Church from the earth there is massive evangelism, and
many who wavered while being preached to by Christians respond to the gospel message when we are gone. Many pay
with their lives for their new found faith.
The altar refers to the cross but as it is the Jewish Dispensation the altar as a symbol of the cross is used. In the
tabernacle sacrifices and offerings were offered to God on the brazen altar.
They are described as being under the altar, in keeping with the fact that the blood of the sacrifices of the Old Testament
was poured out by the priests at the bottom or under the altar (Exodus 29:12; Leviticus. 4:7). The blood of the animal
represented the seat of life (Leviticus 17:11-14). These people are “covered by the blood of Christ”.
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The story is told of seven brothers during the Maccabean wars who were threatened with death because of their faith.
Their mother exhorted them not to yield and reminded them of Abraham who refused not to offer Isaac. She asked them
when they reached their glory to tell Abraham that he had built one altar of sacrifice, but she had erected seven.
The word for “slain” is in the perfect tense which means that their death had everlasting consequences, slain in the past
with the results of which go on forever.
The book of the Revelation makes clear that in the future time of the tribulation it will be most difficult to declare one’s
faith in the Lord Jesus. All who declare openly their faith in Jesus the presence of the Anti-Christ’s people will be slain.
“For the testimony that they held”, is in the imperfect tense indicating that the witness to the word of God was continuous.
These people are the ones who had rejected the witness of the Church Age believers, but since the rapture they have
accepted that the Christians were right and accepted Jesus, and they stand firm unto death now and are rewarded
eternally for this.
APPLICATION
The first four seals killed unbelievers only but this seal deals with the death of believers.
These people hung on to the testimony of the Word of God irrespective of what happened.
Who are these people? They cannot be martyrs of the Church Age; for the Church Age believers were raptured before
the judgments of the tribulation began.
The passage clearly teaches that many people will be saved during the Tribulation period. What we leave behind in our
houses will be crucial for the salvation of many through this time. The Anti-Christ will take some time to get control of all
details of daily life in the countries he can control, and in the early months, even years, unbelievers can seek and find
Christian literature and other digital material. Let us ensure if a person broke into our house that he/she would find
enough to save them and lead them to maturity of faith, and courage in facing martyrdom.
Martyrdom in those days will be as common as it is uncommon today in the western world.
6:10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge
our blood on them that dwell on the earth?
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These martyrs long to see God’s vengeance upon their persecutors. This seems strange to many, but it is perhaps easy
for those who have not “resisted to the point of blood" to accuse those who have.
These people have seen the
unrestrained evil of Satan’s servants and seek an end of the carnage; they are not criticized by God for this.
Tertullian taunted the persecutors: "How shall I admire, how laugh, how rejoice, how exult, when behold so many proud
monarchs, and fancied gods, groaning in the lowest abyss of darkness; so many magistrates who persecuted the name
of the Lord, liquefying in fiercer flames than they ever kindled against Christians." Isaiah 14:9-11.
The martyrs recognise the Holy Character of God with calling him Holy which combines the righteousness and justice of
God and True which means that the judge is absolutely perfect.
In Matthew 23:29-36 Jesus condemned Jerusalem and the religious leaders for the blood of the prophets and persecuted
saints. There is a day of judgment and perfect justice and these martyrs are assured that it is coming.
APPLICATION
"How long" shows a recognition of Christ's absolute control over all the affairs of the world.
Their attitude is in accordance with the Word of God which states that, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay says the Lord”.
[Romans 12:19, Hebrews 10:30-31, 12:29.] The Lord will judge al these evil people with the Devil and his demons.
We must rely on the character of God and recognise that all judgment belongs to the Lord Jesus Christ.
It always has been, and always will be, unregenerate religion that is guilty for the death of martyrs (cf. 1 John 3:10-12
with Revelation 17:1-6).
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6:11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet
for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should
be fulfilled.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Anapauomai” has the connotation of relaxing, laying back. The middle voice indicates that they would benefit from this
resting for a while.
They are told to rest for a little season.
The plan of God must run its course, and others of His servants and their brethren must yet win the crown of life through
giving their life also for the truth (Revelation 2:10).
The Lord's answer to their question is that they should wait a little while for vengeance until certain others should be
martyred also. Martyrdom gives these people opportunity to win eternal rewards that they missed out on in the Church
Age by their previous rejection of the truth.
This reply provides a glimpse into the complicated problem of why evil is allowed to reign. It is allowed time to ensure
none who stand for evil are with any excuse for their evil at all, but also to enable godly people to win eternal rewards.
RESURRECTION BODY
APPLICATION
God has a perfect time for revenge/judgment upon evil demons/men, all the things of history, and your own death.
It answers the question to what kind of a body will the saints have in heaven before their own bodies are raised from the
dead – they are in a form whereby clothing can be received.
The martyred dead here are those who have come from the Tribulation. As such it is clear that they will not receive their
resurrection bodies until the end of the Tribulation - Revelation 20:4.
These martyrs are in heaven in their “intermediate” bodily form. 1 Corinthians 15:45-58. They are each given a white
stole (wrap/cloak) symbolic of reward for personal righteousness - Revelation 3:4.
However, it is stated they are given white robes, a fact that would almost demand that they have a material (of some sort
appropriate for heaven) intermediate body of some kind. A robe would not hang upon an immaterial soul or spirit. Paul
speaks of this intermediate body in 1 Corinthians 15:35-50.
It is not the kind of body that Christians on earth now possess; nor is it the resurrection body of flesh and bones which
Christ spoke after His own resurrection. It is a temporary body to be replaced in turn by their everlasting resurrection
body at the time Christ returns to the earth.
God’s reply is clear, that he allows all this to occur for His own purposes as a part of His total plan. This needs to be
accepted though difficult to understand from our limited viewpoint.
6:12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun
became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The sixth seal ends with a convulsion of nature including a massive earthquake, a blackout of the sun and a meteor
shower. This indicates massive tectonic activity on a world wide scale. This is describing a total shift in the tectonic plates
of the earth resulting in volcanoes and earthquakes world wide.
The Greek word used about the earthquake is “seismos” from which we get the name seismology
The Old Testament prophets spoke of the greatest earthquake of history occurring at the Second Advent of Messiah.
Zechariah 14:4-5, Amos 8:8; Joel 2:10. This earthquake will bring many to give glory to God. Revelation 11:13.
Major changes to the sun’s activity and the reflectivity of the moon is again a very common sign of Christ's coming (Amos
8:8; Isaiah 13:13, 50:3; Ezekiel 32:7; Joel 2:31; Matthew 24:29).
An example of the results of this great world wide earthquake would be an explosion like that of Krakatoa in the Sundra
Strait in Indonesia on August 26 in 1883 where the complete island of some eighteen square miles blew up.
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The sound was heard 3,000 miles away and tremors were felt in Bangkok 1400 miles away.
The volcanic ash went seventeen miles into the air and darkened the sun and the moon looked like blood. Over 36,000
people were killed in the explosion and subsequent tsunami.
Sackcloth of hair is the view one gets of the sky on a sunny day through an Arab’s goats hair tent.
OCCURRENCE OF EARTHQUAKES
APPLICATION
The breaking of the sixth seal brings the first of a series of great earthquakes. cf Matthew. 24:7; Mark. 13:8; Revelation
8:5, 11:13, 16:18.
There are two types of natural activity, the operation of certain divine laws and God intervening at certain points of time in
history. An example would be the Great Flood of Noah.
When the scientists gathered all the data from the explosion at Krakatoa and compared it to Revelation 6 they found a
perfect fit in the form of the events.
The dark day is one of the days when supernatural darkness will cover the world.
The darkness covered the earth as the Lord Jesus Christ bore our sins to hide him from man’s view as He was being
judged by the Father for the sins of mankind.
It will also be dark at the Second Advent when Christ comes back to reign.
The increasing quakes of our own time are but a preview of this.
There were more major earthquakes reported in the 20th Century than in the previous 5000 years. Of the 13 worst
earthquakes known in history, 10 occurred this most recent century.
6:13 And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken
of a mighty wind.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The stars of heaven is a reference to a meteor/asteroid shower. The “falling stars” suggests terrific chaos in near space
in the asteroid belt with numerous asteroids crashing through earth’s atmosphere.
The word untimely means that the figs in the analogy are unripe figs. Figs that are ripe will fall from the fig tree but unripe
figs are well attached to the fig tree thus the wind here is very strong indeed. This is an unusual cosmic wind of some
sort. When the phrase, “she is shaken of a great wind”, includes the present passive participle of seio, it means “being
seriously shaken by an unusually strong wind”. There is a similar construction in Matthew 11:7 where a reed is shaken.
APPLICATION
God is in charge of the universe and the structure of the earth itself is obedient to his direction. The plates of the earth
move at his command, and in this time they all move simultaneously. Solar or cosmic winds blow the asteroids into
earth’s orbit and the earth is showered with falling asteroids over its surface.
It is only God who can use nature to judge man as seen in the miracles of Christ compared to those of man.
MIRACLES: PURPOSE
6:14 And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved
out of their places.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
There are three uses for the word heaven:First heaven is the atmosphere [Genesis 1:6-8] . When strange cloud formations are “rolled up” before unusually strong
storms it appears as if the very heavens are being rolled up. Super storms off/around the USA do this now.
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Second heaven is stellar space. This is the area of asteroid activity (falling stars).
Third heaven is the throne room of God [2 Corinthians 12:2].
The word “kineo” for move is the basis for the English word kinetic which is a form of energy. Great energy is being
released in earth and space. In addition to the already described cosmic disturbances in stellar space, the hills and
islands will be moved out of their prior places (Jeremiah 4:24; Nahum 1:5). A recent magnitude 7.1 earthquake in New
Zealand in September 2010 moved some land more than five metres from its original position.
APPLICATION
Here the atmosphere was rolled up like a scroll like what happens in thermonuclear reactions and super storms.
The words that the mountains and islands were moved out of the way are idioms that the topography of the area had
been changed.
Ultimately Jesus will fold creation up like a garment and exchange it for the new heavens and earth (Isaiah 34:4; Psalm
102:25,26; Hebrews 1:10-12; 2 Peter 3:10,13). We must remember that this earth is temporary. Each earthquake today
reminds us of that. Each new and powerful super-storm reminds us of the power in the atmosphere itself. The signs
occur in the earth, in the atmosphere, and in stellar space. Three ways God warns unsaved man to bow his knee.
There will be as violent a shaking of nature as is possible without the complete destruction of the human race. The
unsaved poor will be most vulnerable as we saw in Haiti in 2010 also. In a 7.1 earthquake over 20,000 died in their
substandard houses. This will be world wide in the tribulation time.
Believers of this final tribulation time will with this warning be able to take actions, for example, by fleeing into the wild
places of their lands and living in tents, and so will be spared death in the destroyed cities. Signs are given in advance in
order for protective actions to be taken by believers to keep themselves safe. Those who know the Word will be safe as
they obey it!
6:15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty
men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These people rejected the gospel when they heard it and they received strong delusions as indicated in 2 Thessalonians
2:1-10, but they have also received great signs from God the Creator. These people hide but sadly most do not repent,
because they prefer their delusion. The believers of this day will also hide from these evil men, and they will be delivered.
The evil ones will die in their caves and holes in the moving ground, but they die without excuse before God!
The action of the people hiding in the dens can be seen in Hosea 10:8, Isaiah 2:10, 19-20. Kings of the earth are the
great political figures in the world, the bond men are slaves. Top and bottom of society sees and knows that judgment is
coming to the earth; all stand without any excuse and all can respond to the gospel preached by the persecuted
believers.
APPLICATION
As a result of a negative attitude towards the true God a spiritual vacuum is produced in their mind which then accepts
the religion of the Beast. Romans 1:18-25. Having deliberately turned from truth man is left without anything but lies.
As they do not believe the truth, then satanic religion comes in and blinds the people’s mind to the truth. Right until the
end however the Lord, through the martyrs is preaching truth and all these unsaved are without excuse.
Politicians and national leaders are not immune to fear, and this is especially true when people have turned from truth.
Rank, in the form of general officers, and mighty men, will not escape this fear. Neither will the labouring or professional
classes. These people are relying on their own human good rather than on the work of the Lord and so they rely on their
weakness. A chain is only as strong as the weakest link, and when man depends upon men, their strength is that of their
weakest ally.
It should be noted that in the period just prior to the Second Advent there is still no equality in the world as there are still
kings and slaves. Man by man’s effort cannot legislate or bring equality or prosperity to man. The only place of equality
in the human race is in Christ or when one become regenerate as we are all born again in exactly the same way and we
all receive a grace spiritual gift at the point of salvation. The only solution to the problems of the earth is with Jesus, and
He will solve them at his second advent.
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6:16 And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the
throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we see universal terror. When Christ comes in judgment the inhabitants of the earth will have a world-wide prayer
meeting praying to the “god of all nations”. This will include every category and class of mankind and all class of gods,
but they fail to seek the truth, so their prayers remain unanswered.
First they will seek to hide. The first instinct of the sinner is always to hide from God. Genesis 3:8. Unsaved man fears
nothing as much as facing his Creator, and yet facing their maker is their only hope.
Secondly, they pray to rocks and mountains, yet they would never pray to God. The prayer request of all is "hide us from
the presence of Him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb." They get half of their prayer answered;
they die, but they must meet the lamb as their judge – Revelation 20:10-15.
At last mankind will see the power of Christ, but for these evil ones too late for salvation. cf Isaiah 13:6,8; Malachi 3:1-3;
Joel 2:11.
Jesus quoted these words on the way to the cross. Luke 23:30.
The terrible depraved state of man (Romans 3:10-18; Ephesians 2:1) is no more vividly expressed in all Scripture. The
saddest thing for a caring believer is seeing the full horror of the fate of those we love, but who will refuse to face the
truth and bow their knee to the Lord of all.
ADVENTS OF CHRIST - THE TWO ADVENTS
APPLICATION
The results of these six judgments of the sixth seal are found in verses 15, 16. Men will plead to be hidden from the
wrath of the Lamb. They could have had him as their Saviour in the Church Age, and they have refused, and they can
choose to accept him in the Tribulation, but they remain followers of Satan and refuse to accept their maker as their Lord.
They will go to all lengths to avoid God. However, despite all these displays of the grace of God and the wrath of an
almighty God, there seems to be no general turning to Him in repentance with his plea of mercy, but only a turning from
the face of God.
Even in the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus, Luke 16:20-31, the rich man in Hades does not seek escape, just some
water for his tongue. He wants to be more comfortable in hell, he will still not accept a Saviour! Sit with this truth, for men
must work very hard to enter Hell – they must hate their maker and saviour!
6:17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This reflects Joel 2:11 and Malachi 3:2 referring to the Day of Judgment. None can stand against their maker, for they
are creatures and must be accountable to the one who made them. There is no alternative to this reality, but they seek
one.
“Able to stand” is a phrase consisting of the Greek words “dunamai” and “histemi”, and it indicates that the question is
“who has the power to remain standing?”
He who sits on the throne is God. The Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ is going to come back in wrath. The great day of
wrath is called in scripture the Baptism of Fire.
BAPTISM OF FIRE
APPLICATION
At the Second Advent all unbelievers are taken off the earth and associated with the fire of judgment. Only the believers
and those who have not reached the age of accountability will enter into the Millennium.
This is not the Last Judgment but the baptism of fire where the believers and unbelievers are separated - Matthew 25:3246, 24:29-44.
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SUMMARY
These concluding verses point out the fact that when the tribulation period does come upon the earth men will know that
God has judged the earth. They will not be concerned with the affairs of the day in order that they may plan for the future
for then they will see that they have no future, and neither does the earth. Earth only has a future as the creator remakes
it and he will do so, but these evil people reject that possibility and cling to their false hopes and false viewpoints.
They will dig out caves in the mountains and rocks; they will actually seek death, not the prolongation of life. These
people will seek suicide and Hell rather than life with God. They get their desire, but with the judgment that their wilful
blindness to the truth deserves.
CHAPTER SEVEN
EVANGELISM IN THE TRIBULATION
INTRODUCTION:
Instead of the seventh seal being opened, which occurs in chapter 8, two other events occupy chapter 7.
[a]
The sealing of the Jews from the twelve tribes of Israel is directed to John's attention in verses 7:1-8.
[b]
The latter part of the chapter (verses: 9-17) describes a great multitude of martyred dead in heaven, who were
killed because of their testimony for their Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Revelation chapter 7 therefore deals with the evangelistic efforts of the 144,000 Jews who after the Rapture of the
Church accept the gospel and believe in Christ, and the fate of many of their converts through this time.
Even in the most critical time of history, God's primary concern is for the salvation of souls. John. 3:16; 1 Timothy. 2:1-7;
2 Peter. 3:8-9. This is a time of judgment, but it is saturated with grace and mercy for those who turn to God.
In the tribulation there will be four waves of world-wide evangelism (there is actually no period of more fervent
evangelism than these seven terror filled years – God’s Grace is seen in the midst of judgment until the last second).
1.
The 144,000 Jewish Missionaries. Revelation 7:4-8
2.
The Gentile converts of these evangelists. Revelation 7:9-17, 12:11, 15:2-4
3.
The two witnesses. Revelation 11:3-12
4.
Angelic evangelism. Revelation 14:6-7
In this parenthetic chapter we have the fulfilment of Romans 11:12, 25-27 and Ezekiel 37:1-14; the spiritual awakening
and restoration of the remnant of Israel.
It should be noted that each of the four waves of evangelism will be world wide and will saturate the world during the
Tribulation. It will be the greatest time of evangelism in world history because the people of that day will know their time
is short, whereas people today, in the Church Age, all believe they have years to do the Lord’s work.
It is unnecessary to spiritualise the sealing of the Jews so that it becomes symbolic of the church. In the first place, the
narrative plainly denies any symbolic character. The sealing of the 144, 000 contains so many incidental details such as
genealogies, tribal names, and subdivided memberships of that group that it cannot possibly be a symbol.
The purpose for God to create a specific people in the form of the Jews include:[a] To receive and write down God’s revelation to man. They were successful in this as all of the authors except
Luke and perhaps one other (Job) were Jews.
[b] To preserve and protect the textural purity of the Scriptures. Comparing the Isaiah scroll from the Dead Sea
Scrolls dated 200 BC to the manuscripts of 900 AD the previously oldest extant manuscript the level of accuracy
was phenomenal.
[c] To service the world by providing a person in the form of Mary through whom the Messiah would be born.
[d] To witness to the pagan world that there is only one true God.
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Whilst over the 4000 years of the Jewish existence as a nation they have not been consistently good witnesses, God has
used their circumstances to bring to the attention of the world His existence and reality.
The history of the Jews can be related to Romans chapters 9-11.
[a] Election - Romans 9
[b] Rejection - Romans 10
[c] Restoration - Romans 11
According to Romans 11:25 Israel’s national blindness will not last forever, it will only last until the fullness of the Gentiles
has occurred. Zechariah had prophesied that in 520 BC. Zechariah 12:10ff.
This chapter clearly indicates that multitudes of people will be saved after the Rapture and during the Tribulation period.
In fact, the chapter describes a group of 144,000 Jews who will be saved during the tribulation and also adds that "a
great multitude which no man could number” will also be saved. In other words, a great world wide revival will occur
during this Tribulation period. A normal, literal reading of these texts in Revelation demands such an interpretation.
It must be remembered that the removal of the Holy Spirit’s New Testament ministry with the departure of the church at
the Rapture (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12) does not mean that the Spirit will lose His omnipresence or His power to bring
saving conviction on earth. The Holy Spirit is restrained only by operating as He did in the Age of Israel before Pentecost.
This will be the greatest harvest of souls ever in the history of mankind. That is what makes this time such an exciting
period; it is not an Apocalypse only, but a time of amazing Revival!
Just like in Old Testament days, the Holy Spirit will be at work convicting sinners and assisting saints in the tribulation.
EVANGELISM
ISRAEL'S FUTURE
7:1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of
the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
In verse one God is seen suspending judgment by the use of his angels. In the book of Revelation, angels are used both
in executing judgments (8:2) and in staying judgment (as in 7:1-3). Angels are servants of the Lord and the angelic
conflict is at its peak in this time, with the angels resisting satanic forces all the way.
By the use of the term, “four corners of the earth”, the Bible does not imply that the earth is flat. The Bible stated that the
earth was a sphere long before scientists found this to be true - Solomon states this is Ecclesiastes and many texts
support this.
The angels at the four corners are those in charge of the elements of nature which are going to be used to judge
mankind. The inhabitants of the earth are given a last chance to be saved. This indicates grace before judgment. They
are restraining these elements until there has been an opportunity for those on the earth to be saved.
"Winds" in Scripture often suggest Divine Judgment. Job 37:9-10; 1 Kings. 19:11; Isaiah. 40:7,24, 66:15; Jeremiah. 4:13;
Nahum 1:3-4, Zechariah. 9:14.
In the ancient world many thought that the winds carried along the sun and moon chariots and the stoppage of the winds
could herald the start of a new age. These are angel servants of the Lord ministering a grace pause in judgment, but
later in Revelation 9:14-15 four angels of destruction will be loosed from the river Euphrates.
APPLICATION
The implication is that prior to the infliction of the wrath of God upon the earth, a time is set apart to protect His servants.
The mission of the angels is clearly stated to prevent an outbreak of the fury of the elements, which, according to 8:7 will
affect the very trees which are mentioned in 7:1.
There is a great polarisation of Christians and non Christians with no one sitting on the fence in this period. The first
three verses give the concept of grace before judgment, but it is “sudden death play off” time for all mankind.
The four corners of the earth indicates directions, this means the four points of the compass, for all parts of the earth are
covered by evangelism, and all are covered by angelic presence, and by fierce and deadly persecution.
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7:2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud
voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here, "ascending" is a present participle, speaking of process.
In verse two another angel appears who comes from the east (literally, the rising of the sun).
This fifth angel is the same as, but appears to be superior in function to the other four.
He instructs the four to suspend judgment, but he also associates them with him in the sealing. ("till we have sealed")
His crying with a loud voice may emphasise the urgency of this project. The instructions are clear which is to suspend
judgment for a time.
APPLICATION
The angel of a different kind, an elect angel has the seal of the living God. This is a protection. In the ancient world there
was sealing of letters and sealing of doors. The 144,000 Jews are protected throughout the tribulation period.
It is not strange that this angel is a different type as other Scriptures demonstrate that there are ranks among both the
good and evil angels. (Ephesians 3·10; 6,12).
As a believer there is no way that you can be taken out early apart from your own actions. Once your time is up you will
go any way. We should be perfectly relaxed about dying and death. There is nothing greater than the plan of God in
living or dying. No believer who walks with the Lord will die one second before they should. Psalm 68:20, 116:15.
These people fulfil their ministry for the period of the tribulation. Sealing denotes preservation, protection, and it is a
guarantee of the validity of their message.
7:3 Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their
foreheads.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the four angels of the "winds of wrath" are restrained from harming the earth, sea, or trees.
This will be seen to parallel Revelation 8:6-l2 in the first four trumpet judgments. These judgments are withheld until
God's servants are sealed "on their foreheads". Note also the care for the planet – for this is God’s creation, but in the
judgment that Satan will unleash the world will be “trashed” – however the creator will reform it all and the Millennial
Kingdom will be the most wonderful time ever on the earth.
Comparison of Ezekiel 9:4 and Revelation 9:4 shows that this seal is for protection in the midst of tribulation judgments.
The seal does not necessarily have to be visible to be real as stated by Ephesians 4:30, It is, however, principally a.
guarantee of ownership and security and both these ideas are evident in the sealing of the 144, 000. Satan’s people will
receive their “mark” and God’s people have their seal; one gives access to materialism in the midst of the tribulation, and
the other gives life eternal. Each person makes their eternal choice and they must live and die for this.
First these believers are owned by God which means they are a redeemed people; also, they are kept secure by God
which means they have physical safety from their enemies while they are accomplishing their service for the Lord,
DOCTRINE OF THE SEAL
APPLICATION
The particular service/ministry that is rendered by these Jews brings about the world wide revival.
Looking at this from a human viewpoint, if one wanted to bring about a world wide revival in a relatively short period of
time one could not, pick a better group to work with than driven and focused Jewish people.
First of all, the Jews are scattered all over the world. All of the world's major languages and a number of the world’s
minor languages are spoken by Jews somewhere. Outside of the United States, most Jews are at least bilingual.
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Secondly, also outside of the United States, most Jews receive a basic knowledge of the Old Testament and are taught
the Scripture.
So sometime after the Rapture of the Church, God will in some way, yet unrevealed, go around the world and convict
144,000 Jews. These people may be convicted by material on the internet, or books left behind by Christian missions
and churches, but they will respond to the Gospel message, and in response to their belief in Jesus as their Messiah
God will save and seal for service 144,000 Jewish believers in Y’Shua Ha Meshiarch.
They already speak the languages, and they already have the basic knowledge of the Old Testament that will be needed
for their work. They can quickly take advantage of all Christian material left behind by Messianic Organizations. All they
would need is a little time spent in learning the content of the New Testament and thus they can begin to preach the
Gospel in a relatively short time.
So during the first half of the tribulation period God will evangelise the world by means of these 144,000 Jews and thus
fulfil the prophecy found in Matthew 24:14. It is implied that these who are thus sealed are set apart as a special divine
remnant to be a testimony to God's grace and mercy during this time of judgement.
This remnant is frequently seen on the pages of Old Testament prophecy. (Isaiah 1:9; 43:15; Psalm 44:10-26; 55-57; 64;
79, 80)
PROPHECIES CONCERNING ISRAEL - verses 4-8
Judah is mentioned first as it is recognized by Jacob as the ruling tribe. It is the tribe from which Jesus Christ came. Also
it was David’s tribe and the tribe of Daniel. Genesis 49:8-12. Each tribal group has something to teach us about the
grace and plan of God.
Reuben was the firstborn and had been superseded by Judah, Levi, and Joseph. Even though he was superseded he
was still involved.
Gad was the seventh son, seven is the perfect number, the gospel is perfect and therefore the gospel is presented in all
of its perfection in the Tribulation.
Asher was the eighth son. Eight is the number of completion. The gospel is complete.
Naphtali was the sixth son. Six is the number of man and God uses man in this day and age.
Manasseh was one of the weakest tribes. None of us earn or deserve the privilege of serving the Lord.
Simeon was weak and unworthy. He was scattered among the other tribes as he could not stand up for himself. Even
though Simeon is weak God uses him in the Tribulation. 2 Corinthians 12:9,10
Levi is an example of cursing turned to blessing. He was so bad that he was not allowed land in the Promised land yet he
repented and was given spiritual oversight over the nation Israel. God uses repentant sinners for his purpose. He uses
the helpless and the hopeless.
Issachar is a producer. A producer is rewarded by the Lord for spiritual work undertaken in the Spirit. Work done on the
basis of grace is rewardable.
Zebulon means a haven for ships. God uses those who are in commerce for his glory.
Joseph is the name used instead of Ephraim, as it was Ephraim which led the split in the nation into southern and
northern kingdoms after Solomon. These 144000 Jews will work together as a team. There are no splits between them
as has characterized previous Jewish history. When believers start to fight the impact of the gospel is lost completely.
Benjamin means son of the right hand. The gospel emphasises the risen Lord sitting at the right hand of the Father
having conquered death. This was the tribe that was faithful to Judah in the split. Faithfulness in making the issue clear
has its rewards.
Dan is not named. This tribe led in idolatry with the golden calf being set up in Dan. It is likely that it is from this tribe that
the False Prophet, the dictator of Israel claims he comes. Genesis 49:17. Other passages which indicate this are
Leviticus 24:11, Judges 18:2, 18:30-31, 1 Kings 11:26, 12:28-30. Once again – only at the time will this be understood.
Notes
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7:4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four
thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The number of those sealed is given in verse four as 144,000, and they are taken from all the tribes of Israel except Dan.
Twelve is a number of completeness. Twelve times twelve is the perfect square, multiplied by one thousand is their
number.
They are the instructors of righteousness for the saved of those days world wide as seen in Daniel 12:3.
“Sealed” is in the perfect tense, passive voice, which means that they received the sealing in the past with a result that
the effect goes on forever.
It is of interest that the second time sealed is used it is in the nominative male plural showing that the 144,000 sealed
evangelists from the tribes of Israel are all male. This construction is repeated in the following verses which designates
the tribes involved.
The fact that they are all male is also indicated in Revelation 14:4 where they are seen to be unmarried Jewish males.
TWELVE AND A THOUSAND
APPLICATION
With the Divine seal they will fulfil Matthew 24:13-14 by enduring to the end of the Tribulation and proclaiming the gospel
to every nation.
The fact that the twelve tribes of Israel are singled out for special reference in the tribulation time is another evidence that
the term ''Israel" as used in the Bible is invariably a reference to the descendants of Jacob who was first given the name
Israel ("a prince with God").
It is clear that what we have here are 144,000 Jews and not the church in action.
7:5 Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of
the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Reuben lost his three fold birthright (Genesis. 49:3-4) because of instability or character and evil actions.
Judah lead the children on the desert march (Numbers 2:3-9; 10:14), and was the first tribe to receive its allotted
possessions west of the Jordan (Joshua 15:20-63).
Therefore Judah, from which Jesus came, became the ruling tribe. Levi became the priestly tribe, and Joseph is the tribe
of inheritance (the double-portion going to Ephraim and Manasseh).
Second, it is obvious that the tribe of Dan is absent
It was an ancient rabbinical interpretation of Genesis 49:16-17 that Antichrist would come from the tribe of Dan, but this
is wrong, for he is a Gentile, but the false prophet is likely to claim to come from Dan.
Also, in Deuteronomy 27:15, God declared that He would blot out the name of the tribe that went into idolatry.
We are told in Judges 18:30 and 1 Kings 12:28-30 that the tribe of Dan led Israel into idolatry. In Jeremiah 8:16-17
cursing on Israel is seen as coming from Dan.
THE PROPHECY REGARDING JUDAH
Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand shall be in the neck of thine enemies; thy father's children
shall bow down before thee. Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he
couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up? The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver
from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. Binding his foal unto the
vine, and his ass's colt unto the choice vine; he washed his garments in wine, and his clothes in the blood of grapes: His
eyes shall be red with wine, and his teeth white with milk. - Genesis 49:8-12
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THE PROPHECY REGARDING REUBEN
Reuben, thou art my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency
of power: Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father's bed; then defiledst thou it: he
went up to my couch. - Genesis 49:3,4.
THE PROPHECY REGARDING GAD
Gad, a troop shall overcome him: but he shall overcome at the last. - Genesis 49:19
THE PROPHECY CONCERNING DAN
Dan shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Israel. Dan shall be a serpent by the way, an adder in the path, that
biteth the horse heels, so that his rider shall fall backward. I have waited for thy salvation, 0 Lord. - Genesis 49:16-18.
APPLICATION
The 144000 are all regenerate. The Jews are scattered throughout the world and speak most of the languages of the
world at the time of the Tribulation. At Pentecost the Jews were evangelised using the gift of languages, at the end of the
age the Jews will evangelise the Gentiles in various tongues.
There are thirteen tribes in Israel. Dan is not included in the roster, so it is back to 12. Reuben who was the eldest son
lost the eldest son’s rights of the kingship to Judah, the priesthood to Levi, and the double portion to Joseph.
The double portion brought into existence the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, but here they are re-united as “Joseph”,
and Ezekiel makes it clear that Dan will be represented in the Millennial Kingdom, but they are not here at this time.
7:6 Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nephthalim were sealed twelve thousand.
Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand.
THE PROPHECY REGARDING ASHER
Out of Asher his bread shall be fat, and he shall yield royal dainties, - Genesis 49:20
THE PROPHECY REGARDING NAPHTALI
Naphtali is a hind let loose: he giveth goodly words - Genesis 49:21.
7:7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the
tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand.
PROPHECIES REGARDING SIMEON AND LEVI
Simeon and Levi are brethren; instruments of cruelty are in their habitations. O My Soul, come not thou into their secret;
unto their assembly, mine honour, be not thou united: for in their anger they slew a man, and in their selfwlll they digged
down a wall. 'Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel; I will divide them in Jacob, and
scatter them in Israel. - Genesis 49:5-7.
THE PROPHECY REGARDING ISSACHAR
Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens. And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was
pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute. - Genesis 49:14,15
7:8 Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of
the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand.
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THE PROPHECY REGARDING ZEBULUN
Zebulun shall dwell at the haven of the sea; and he shall be for a haven of ships; and his border shall be unto Zidon. Genesis 49:13
THE PROPHECY REGARDING JOSEPH
Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall: The archers have sorely
grieved him, and shot at him, and hated him: But his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong
by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob (from thence is the shepherd, the stone of Israel). Even by the God of thy
father, who shall help thee; and by the Almighty, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the
deep that lieth under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb: The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the
blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on
the crown of the head of him that was separate from his brethren. - Genesis 49:22-26
THE PROPHECY REGARDING BENJAMIN
“Benjamin shall ravin as a wolf in the morning he shall devour the prey, and at night he shall divide the spoil” - Genesis
49:27.
APPLICATION
There are 20 separate listings of the tribes of Israel in the Old Testament. Out of these listings there are no fewer than
18 that differ in omissions and additions. In this case however there is a beautiful picture of evangelism using the
meaning of the names of the tribes in the order given.
The Meaning in the order of the Tribes in Revelation 7:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
L.
Judah praise of God
Reuben behold a Son
Gad - A company
Asher - blessed
Naphtali - wrestling with
Manasseh - forgetfulness
Simeon - hearing and obeying
Levi - cleaving to
Issachar - a reward
Zebulun - a home and dwelling place.
Joseph - adding
Benjamin - son of my right hand
This order gives the following phrase which deals with evangelism:"Praisers of God beholding the Son, a company of blessed ones wrestling with forgetfulness, hearing and
obeying, and cleaving to a reward of a home and dwelling place, adding sons at God's right hand"
THE MARTYRED CONVERTS OF THE 144,000 - verses 9-17
7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and
people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their
hands;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“After these things” indicates the after the salvation of the 144,000 these people were saved. It also indicates a cause
and effect relationship.
Over the period of church history there have been different nations which have a maximum positive attitude towards the
gospel.
This has always varied with North Africa being a location with maximum Christian activity in the third century, China in
the sixth, Britain in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and the United States over the last two centuries or so being
examples.
Without number - “arithemeo” – arithmetic.
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“Of all nations” - there will still be nations in the tribulation.
Tongues are always Gentile languages in contrast to the two languages spoken by the Jews at that time which were
Hebrew and Aramaic.
The word for “stood” is in the perfect tense; they stood there in the past with eternal results.
The palms in their hands represents victory and great happiness. Palm Sunday is an example. Revelation 21:4 - no more
pain death tears, the old things are passed away.
Palm branches were specially used in the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles. In the future the remnant of all nations
will go up to Jerusalem to worship at the Feast of Tabernacles. Zechariah 14:16.
The feast of Tabernacles represented the provision of the Lord during the Exodus wanderings; it pictures the Millennial
Reign of Jesus upon the earth, which is God’s final provision for mankind.
FEAST OF TABERNACLES
Christ's Observance of the Feast of Tabernacles - was given in John 7:1- 10:21. As mentioned previously there were
two main ceremonies, the pouring out of the water and the lighting of the lamp stands.
In John 7:37-39 - Here Jesus says that who comes to Him will have living water. The permanent indwelling Holy Spirit
which He spoke of had not happened at that time because the Lord had not as yet been glorified. He now indwells us
satisfying our spiritual thirst.
In regards to the lighting John 8:12 Jesus says that He is the light of the world. Those who follow him will no longer walk
in darkness but will walk in the light of life.
The pouring of the water was drawn from the pool of Siloam which was not the closest pool to the Temple. During the
feast of Tabernacles in John 9 Jesus tells the man born blind to go and wash in the pool of Siloam.
Verses 6 and 7 emphasises the physical side of sight where he went from the darkness of blindness to the light of vision.
It was no coincidence that the Lord sent him to the pool of Siloam as it was the feast of Tabernacles.
Verses 35-41 - emphasises the spiritual side where he went from the darkness of unbelief to the light of salvation.
The Fulfilment - The Messianic kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ fulfils this feast as shown in Zechariah 14:16-19.
In the Messianic kingdom all the Gentile nations will be obligated to keep this feast by sending a delegation to Jerusalem
which contrasts with the obligations under the Mosaic law which made it mandatory for Israel only.
Any Gentile nation which refuses to send a delegation will be disciplined by drought.
The Feast of Atonement which is fulfilled by the Great Tribulation is followed by the feast of Tabernacles which is fulfilled
by the great rejoicing of the Millennial kingdom. The tribulation is clearly stated in Zechariah 12-14:15 and is followed by
the kingdom.
This is also the case in the book of the Revelation where the extensive Tribulation passage in chapters 6-19 is seen to
precede the Millennial reign.
The contrast between this group of converts and the 144,000 is shown as follows:THE 144,000 - Revelation 7:1-8
This group is limited to 144,00
These are specifically from the 12 tribes of Israel
They are on earth
Sealed and protected through the Tribulation
They go into the millennial kingdom
These are the evangelists
THEIR CONVERTS - Revelation 7:9-17
This group is innumerable
These are from every nation including Israel.
These are in heaven
Not sealed and martyred
They are in heaven before the Lamb
These clothed in white stoles are praising God for their
salvation
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THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN THE DISPENSATION OF ISRAEL
APPLICATION
In the Tribulation however there will be a positive attitude throughout the world to the gospel. The worst time in the
history of the world will be the greatest period of evangelism. This will be due to the sudden effect of the rapture, with
many people having Christian friends who have now disappeared! Many will suddenly realise the truth that they had
previously played with was their life saving reality!
These are individuals not nations. In contrast the picture of Revelation 7 is the Gentiles that have been martyred whilst
the ones in Matthew 25 are ones that survive the Tribulation and are divided as sheep and goats at the end of that
period.
In the passage in Matthew 25, “My brethren” are the 144,000 Jews, the sheep are the saved and the goats are
unbelievers.
The goats are told “Depart from me ye cursed”. Cursed in the perfect tense, cursed in the past when they were
evangelised and they said “no”. They did this on at least four occasions when evangelism was offered to them.
They are cursed as per John 3:18-36. They are cast into hell which was prepared for Satan and his angels. It was not
prepared for mankind, but for the angelic traitors to God, but the men who select Satan’s path must share his fate.
“I kept on being a stranger”, imperfect tense. “If you did not do it to one of these 144,000 you did not do it to me”.
Treatment of the evangelists will determine eternal fate, for believers will protect and feed and assist them in any way,
even if it costs them their life, but unbelievers will hate, despise and reject them. They will go into everlasting
punishment.
The language of the indigenous people must be used to give the gospel. The indigenous movement is the best method
of evangelism and the Jewish evangelists will utilize all the languages of the world to reach the lost.
The "white robes" speak of the righteousness of faith as seen in Revelation 3:4-5, 6:11. This is in contrast to the "soiled
garments" of human works (Isaiah 64:6; Zechariah 3:1-5; Revelation 3:4).
God provides for us and in the presence of the Lord there is great unrestrained joy even for those who have suffered
martyrdom. The Holy Spirit will still work in the Tribulation convicting of sin, empowering certain saints but as it is a
reversion to the Jewish Dispensation the universal Baptism of the Holy Spirit will not take place.
7:10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the
Lamb.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Salvation to our God” represents possession, salvation belongs to God, the Father planned it, the Son performed it, the
Holy Spirit revealed it.
These people are saying that they can take no credit for salvation. They are totally grace oriented believers.
They that sit on the throne are the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit is not mentioned as He revealed it. His job is to
glorify Christ until Christ returns.
SALVATION
APPLICATION
When we belong to Christ there is no credit to us; Jesus has done the work and we get the benefits. It is all glory to Him.
All religion is based on doing things for God, but God’s plan calls for man to accept that God does the important work
and we by grace receive all that He has for us.
You are not saved because you are moral, because you are baptised, because you join a church; you are saved by
personal acceptance of the death of Christ. It is his work for us that saves us, we cannot save ourselves. Eph 2:8-9.
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7:11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before
the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Now the angels come again into focus. It is noted that in Revelation 5:11 there were “many angels”. Here we see it is “all
elect angels”.
Again we see the obedience and the focus of the worship by all concerned to God on the throne.
Between the two “amens” in the next verse we have the seven characteristics of the Character of God.
APPLICATION
Joining the multitude of the saints, the four living creatures, and the elders, were all standing round about" the throne
worshipping God.
We should always be aware that God will not have any other gods in preference to Him and wishes us to worship Him in
Spirit and in truth. God seeks us to recognize the reality of his creatorship and appropriately bow before him.
7:12 Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be
unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Blessing means that God gives it to us on the basis of His character not because we earn it or deserve it. Blessing is
based on the generosity and perfect character of God.
Glory is the plan of God which glorifies God, the plan of grace.
Wisdom indicates divine omniscience. Every plan has behind it a planner. Our universe has a mind behind it.
The greatest human planner was probably Julius Caesar whose plan for Rome caused it to last a further 500 years.
God is perfect so His plan is perfect and will last from eternity to eternity. As the plan is perfect man can do nothing in the
plan except obey.
Thanksgiving - this is the believers response to the Character of God in grace.
Honour - God provides a thing of value.
Power - Omnipotence is the ability of God to do what He plans. He is endowed with power.
Strength - could be translated might.
APPLICATION
God is the source of all that is worthwhile in the earth. He can and will empower us to do his works for His glory.
We receive sufficient power to undertake the Christian life which operates on divine rather than human power.
7:13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and
whence came they?
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The people that have been clothed have been so in the past with a result that they are clothed forever. The long white
robe was clothing of great honour and dignity in the ancient world.
A common error that is committed by many Bible students equates this throng to all the saints of all ages and the great
tribulation, but this must be just the Tribulational martyrs.
However we must not ignore definite prophecies in the book of Revelation, for this multitude cannot be the saints of all
ages, or even the church, as can be readily seen by comparing this passage to the scene and events of Revelation 3:10
which refers to the church.
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THOSE FROM REVELATION 3:10
They were before the Tribulation
They sat on thrones about the throne
They wore crowns
They have harps and vials
They sing a new song
They are kings and priests and reign with Him
THOSE FROM REVELATION 7:9-17
They came out of the Tribulation
They stand before the throne
They are uncrowned
They have palms
They cry with a loud voice
They serve Him day and night
APPLICATION
The scene before us then, speaks not of the church, or all the saints of the ages, Hebrews 11, nor the millennium, but a
scene in heaven in the time of the Tribulation. This is a time of salvation for a great host in spite of persecution and
much martyrdom.
As we approach the time of the return of our Lord for His church we need to think about these people who will be living in
perilous violent times and provide suitable written guidance for them to use as they have to learn at a fast pace. Our
Christian written work is for today and this later day. What they find must assist them stand in these days, and prosperity
gospel nonsense will not help them at all.
7:14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great
tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Who are these people and where do they come from? You tell me and I will record it, says John.
The past of this multitude is given. They come out of the tribulation by means of martyrdom.
They "have washed their robes" by faith. This is the cleansing spoken of in Isaiah 1:18, Psalm 51:1-7; 1 Corinthians
6:11: Titus 3:5.
The active voice of the verb speaks of personal repentance and faith in "The Blood of the Lamb." (cf. John 1:29; Exodus
12:3-13; Hebrews 9:14).
The Blood of Christ is a term of judgment whereby Christ was imputed and judged for our sins that we might be made
righteous in God's sight. (Romans 5:9-10; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 John 1:7; 1 Peter 1:19).
Blood of sacrificial animals were used in the Old Testament to sanctify the utensils used for worship.
White garments were the clothes required to serve in the Tabernacle.
Two words are translated great in this chapter - “poulos” [in verse 9] - many, numerous whilst in this verse “megas” is
used in this verse meaning great
APPLICATION
We have to have washed our selves in the blood of the Lamb.
The analogy of the Lamb pictures the cross as providing four things:
1.
Sacrifice by substitution
2.
Forgiveness of sins
3.
Reconciliation to God
4.
Cleansing, sanctification
7:15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth
on the throne shall dwell among them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The present activity shows these people engaged in constant service to God due to the present tense and active voice.
These people may not have felt they could worship on earth, but they will in heaven forever – they don’t miss out.
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John sees this as present reality though it is yet in the future. John has entered heaven in his vision and so he is
temporarily beyond space and time and so sees the future as if it is past; which God does.
Here God is said to "spread His Tabernacle over them." - The word to dwell is to tabernacle, or make his tent with them,
dwelling with these people.
This same word is used of Christ in John 1:14, "He tabernacled among us."
Because of the washing described in verse 14 the saints will serve.
This fact is highly significant for it indicates that heaven is not only a place of rest but also a place of service.
It is also stated that they will serve Him "day and night," that is, they are delivered from the limitations of this life, not
requiring sleep or rest. Heaven is not a deck chair in the sun, but active service and worship of the Lord.
APPLICATION
Service in time is but a foretaste of eternal service. Those not serving the Lord are not in training for eternity.
To tabernacle pictures divine protection. In the Jewish mind this would take the form of the Shekinah Glory.
We also note that He will dwell among them, starting here, then through the Millennium and into eternity future.
7:16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“They shall hunger no more” - testing by hunger due to the economic system brought in by the Antichrist. Revelation
13:16-18. Here you also have persecution being over forever. All persecution and suffering is but for a time, and when it
is over there is blessing forever.
The sun lighting on them is not light but pressure that was once falling upon these people.
These people have no further suffering because they are in the presence of God forever
APPLICATION
There will be no more suffering or persecution once we are with the Lord.
Our needs will be provided completely forever in heaven.
God loves us with the same love with which He loves the Lord Jesus Christ.
7:17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains
of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have the lamb who is the shepherd, the good shepherd. There is water in heaven but no more tears.
Because the Lamb is their Shepherd they shall not lack anything ever again (Psalm 23:1).
Water is used for three things [a]
[b]
[c]
Salvation - Isaiah 55:1,
Holy Spirit John 7:37-39,
The Word - 1 Peter 1.
This verse alludes to Isaiah 25:8 in the context of the Messianic banquet, the resurrection at the end of the age and
Isaiah 49:10 in the age to come.
THE LAWS OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE
APPLICATION
Imagine the Shepherd being a Lamb. He knows exactly how to meet the need of the Sheep:
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1.
He is our Good Shepherd (Psalm 22, John 10:11-14). - This is Christ, crucified for the sheep.
2.
He is our Great Shepherd (Psalm 23, Hebrews 13:20-21). - This is Christ resurrected and providing for the
needs of the sheep.
3.
He is our Chief Shepherd (Psalm 24, 1 Peter 5:4). - This is Christ returning for His sheep, with His reward in His
Hand.
What this says is that what you do not know about the Word now you will know in eternity. In eternity all believers will
love Him in the same way as all believers will know Him.
The Bible is the only view you have of heaven today; it is the fountain of living water for us, and all who drink from it
regularly get a foretaste of heaven.
There will be no sorrow in heaven.
CONCLUSION
In every age salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Revelation 1:5, 5:9, 12:11. The tribulation will be the
greatest period of evangelism in history. Matthew 24:14
There will be two categories of evangelism--grace and fear. Grace always precedes judgment.
The 144,000 Jews will live under the law of supreme sacrifice.
Corinthians 9:1-14, (Revelation 14:4).
They will be like 144,000 Apostle Pauls of 1
Daniel 12:1 speaks of the Tribulation as a time unparalleled in history and yet promises that God will deliver many
through it. There will be two main methods of deliverance:
[a]
Flight. Daniel 11:41, Matthew 24:15-31; Revelation 12:6,14; Isaiah 63:1-6
Edom, and Ammon will be preserved and delivered
Those who flee into Moab,
[b]
Fight. Zechariah 14:2-15; Revelation. 14:19-20. Those fighting in Jerusalem will be saved by the 2nd Advent at
the last moment.
Others not sealed will be brought through martyrdom. Revelation. 12:11, 14:4, 12
NOTES ON THE BOOK SO FAR
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CHAPTER EIGHT
THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPET JUDGMENTS
INTRODUCTION
The sixth chapter gave an overview of conditions in the Tribulation by the first six seal Judgments.
The seventh chapter is a parenthesis and shows that God's plan of redemption continues in the Tribulation.
With the opening of the seventh seal we now see the nature and the basis of the Trumpet Judgments.
In Revelation there is great value placed on the prayers of the saints.
Here the prayers are seen as an important part of coming judgments as they were in Revelation 6:9-11.
The action unfolds in verses 1-5
[a]
v1
Silence
[b]
v2
Seven Trumpets
[c]
v3
Prayers of the Saints
[d]
v4
Divine Reception
[e]
v5
Divine Wrath
8:1 And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour.
KEY WORDS
Opened
Seventh
Seal
Was
Silence
Heaven
Half Hour
Anoigo
Hebdomos
Sphragis
Ginomai
Sige
Ouranos
Hemiorion
To Open Up Or Again [Aorist Active Indicative]
Seventh
Seal
To become [Aorist Middle Indicative]
Silence
Heaven
The Space Of Half An Hour
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
From chapter four onward we have seen the choirs of heaven declaring the praise of God and the worthiness of the
Lamb. Worship has been continuous until this very point and then it suddenly stops.
Suddenly, as the seventh seal is removed by Christ, the choirs are silenced. When God moves directly to unfold the last
great judgments upon unbelieving mankind the awesomeness of what is about to occur brings all to silent contemplation.
Judgment is God’s “strange work”, Isaiah 28:21. God does not seek to judge, nor takes any pleasure in judgment. God
seeks the salvation of the lost, not their damnation. Ezekiel 18:20-24, 2 Peter 3:9ff. All saved mankind and angels feels
the great sadness of what is about to unfold and stand in prayerful silence for the lost. Worship involves prayer, but all
other forms of worship must stop for serious prayer; it should be offered in silent tearfulness.
The aorist middle indicative of ginomai indicates the dramatic effect by this profound stillness with no elder or angel
speaking, no chorus of praise nor cry of adoration, no thunder from the throne and a temporary cessation in the
revelations. See Revelation 10:4. There is no joy over the destruction of the evil ones, only sadness at their choices.
The word translated “About the space of half an hour” “is a compound and a late and rare word (hemi, half, hora, hour).
This is the only time that this word is used in the New Testament. This silence not only awaits the coming Judgments, but
adds to the importance of the prayers of the saints in verse 4 - Psalm 46:10.
The half hour pause might be called the lull before the storm because the seventh seal which has just been opened will
bring the greatest judgments yet. Keep on remembering, God takes no pleasure in this and no believer ought ever to
celebrate the death of the evil lost, for compassion is the Lord’s work and salvation his desire. He is not willing that any
should perish. 2 Peter 3:9. God has done and will continue to do all he can to get the lost to recognize their need of a
Saviour and turn to him. This is sad work. The trumpets are mournful not celebrational. Ezekiel 18:30-32, 33:11.
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APPLICATION
The Lord gives adequate time for the world to think over the six fold seal judgments that the world has just experienced.
He will eagerly await for them to turn in repentance to Christ. Each of these “apocalyptic” actions has had grace and
mercy at its heart, for through them many have come to salvation. Multitudes have been saved, and many martyred but
equally many have gone to their deaths with hatred of God upon their hearts. This is the opposite of God’s intentions, but
it is exactly what Satan intends, for he seeks as much company in the Lake of Fire as he can get!
There is complete silence literally, "there came silence”. The stillness is so intense that it can be felt, as no angel, or
elder is speaking, no chorus of praise, nor cry of adoration, just a profound silence. We need to be more reflective in our
modern church services. We do not allow for enough silence, but fill it with music or verbal utterances. Let us not be
afraid of standing silently before our holy God and praying in silence for the lost. Let us emphasize the prayer meeting!
8:2 And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets.
KEY WORDS
Saw
Seven
Angels
Stood
Before
Given
Trumpets
Eido
Hepta
Aggelos
Histemi
Enopion
Didomai
Salpigx
To see, Behold [Aorist Active Indicative]
Seven
Angels
Stand, Abide [Perfect Active Indicative]
In the sight of
To Give [Aorist Passive Indicative]
A Trumpet
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The trumpet in the ancient world was used to call for celebrations, or solemn religious and military assemblies, and as
alerts, often warning of impending invasions. A trumpet was always to be responded to, and for every trumpet call there
was an appropriate and trained response. Not to hear and respond to the call of an official trumpet was to face legal
discipline in the ancient world.
It is noted that a series of seven trumpeters occur in the Old Testament - Joshua 6:6, 13, 1 Chronicles 15:24, Nehemiah
12:41.
John saw as a panorama the gravity of these Trumpet Judgments. The seven angels stand at attention as they receive
the instrument of judgment they will release. These trumpets are a solemn call for action to believers and a final solemn
call to repent to unbelievers.
These angels have joined in the rejoicing of heaven over the repentance of every believing sinner Luke 15:10. Now they
will share in the wrath of God against those who have rejected Christ and with bloody hatred given their allegiance to the
Anti-Christ. By the judgments unleashed upon the earth mankind has been left without any third alternative; they serve
the Lord or they serve Satan’s man. These are the only options left to mankind now.
It is also of interest that between the Testaments the Jews had settled on the fact that there were seven archangels
including Michael, the arch-angel who guarded Israel.
ANGELS
FEAST OF TRUMPETS
Initial Reference - Leviticus 23:23-25
OLD TESTAMENT
Numbers 29:1-6 - emphasises on the various sacrifices which have to be offered at this feast.
Nehemiah 8:1-12 - Ezra reads the law of Moses before the people
NAMES
Yom Truah - day of the blowing of the trumpet which is the Biblical name. In Judaism it means the need for the Jews to
remember their sins.
Zicharon Truah - memorial of the blowing of the trumpets, or the shouting for joy. This is based on Job 38:7. In the
Jewish tradition this was the day of Creation.
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Yom Hazicharon - day of remembrance because the call goes out for the Jews to remember their sins before the next
feast, the Feast of Atonement.
Yom Hadin - day of judgment because of the belief that on this day all Jews pass under judgment to see if their sins will
or will not be forgiven.
Rosh Hashanah - head of the year - this is the most common - this was the start of the Jewish civil new year based, on
the belief that God created the heavens and the earth on this day.
BIBLICAL PRACTICE It occurred on the first day of the seventh month Tishrei and lasted for one day only.
It was a Sabbath with no work done.
It was observed by the blowing of Ram's horn trumpets.
JEWISH PRACTICE it was a Jewish tradition that this was the day of original Creation.
The Blowing of the Shofar
[a] The Horn - Moses does not give a reason for the blowing of the rams horns.
[b] The Three Purposes [i] A call to remembrance and repentance, a time to remember your sins and repent.
[ii] To represent a covenant relationship with God
[iii] Confuse Satan based on the belief that it is on this day that Satan accuses Israel and the blowing
of the Shofar will confuse him.
[c] The Three Meanings
[i] Symbol of the regathering of Israel
[ii] The day of the resurrection of the dead
[iii] On this day three books are opened in heaven,
[a] - the book of life which if you are righteous your name will be inscribed in it,
[b] - the second book is the book of death naming people who are wicked
[c] - the third is the book of the in between where most Jews resided as they were neither
wicked or righteous.
They had ten days to repent between this feast and the next, the Feast of Atonement. These were
called the awesome days [ Yomim Noraim].
As no one can be sure in which book they reside they assume they are in the book of the in between
so that during this period all must seek forgiveness from both God and man.
The Saturday that falls within this ten day period is called Shabbat Shuvah the Sabbath of
Repentance.
The Trumpet Blasts - there were 100 of these with the first 99 comprising types [a], [b] and [c], the last trumpet blast
being type [d]
[a] Tekiah - a straight long plain blast - symbol of joy
[b] Shevarim - three short blasts - the symbol of sobbing
[c] Truah - nine short staccato blasts indicating fear
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[d] Tekiah Gedolah - the great long trumpet blast which concludes the trumpet blasts on this feast. In this the
trumpeter blew until he was exhausted. It is called the last trump. It represents the redemption, resurrection and
regenerating of Israel
Tashlich - casting forth - Micah 7:19 - here God promises that He will cast their sins into the uttermost parts of the sea.
Other Practices [a] They dipped their bread in honey rather than salt in the hope that they will have a sweet year.
[b] They ate apples dipped in honey also wishing for a sweet year. They also ate grapes and pomegranates.
[c] They would have a head of a ram on the table representing the sacrifice of Isaac. They would also wear a
white hat for purity.
[d] Psalm 47 was recited 7 times before the blowing of the trumpets.
MESSIANIC IMPLICATIONS
[a] Isaiah 27:13 - the great trumpet being blown here indicates the start of the regathering of Israel in preparation for the
Tribulation. There are a number of passages in Scripture which point to a regathering of Israel for the judgement of the
Tribulation - Ezekiel 20:33-38, 22: 17-22, Zephaniah 2:1-2
[b] The Rapture of the Church which will come before the Tribulation will fulfil the feast of Trumpets. 1 Thessalonians
4:13-18. The trumpet blast will announce the Rapture of the Church. 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 - here it is at the last
trumpet.
Paul uses the definite article here saying it is a defined last trumpet blast and the Rapture will fulfil it. This is the Tekiah
Gedolah.
APPLICATION
Scripture uses the trumpet in the following ways:1. The Trumpet (Shofar – Ram’s Horn) of Sinai. Exodus 19:16-19. Here the voice of God gives warning of the
importance of His Word. cf Revelation 1:10.
This trumpet is made of the horn of a sacrificial animal.
2. The Trumpet of Rapture. 1 Corinthians 15:52-53; 1 Thessalonians 4:16. The Bride of Christ will be caught up and
transformed in the twinkling of an eye
3. The Trumpets of Judgment - Revelation 8-9. The first four primarily affect natural creation; the last three are directly
upon mankind.
4. The Trumpet of Deliverance. Matthew 24:31. At the second advent, Jesus Christ will send His angels with a great
trumpet to gather His people from the four corners of the earth.
The trumpets here are, warning of impending disasters. God warns of divine judgment before it comes, and repentance
remains possible for all the lost, right up until their individual deaths.
8:3 And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much
incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The angel is an angel of the same kind as the others; he is an elect angel, a servant of God and believers.
The prayers are offered as incense before the Lord in heaven. Our prayers reach heaven and are the sweet incense
before the throne of God. Our prayers are precious in the sight and smell of the Lord our God. God knows all our
thoughts and all of history, so why do we pray? The answer is because the Lord wants us to join with his plan and speak
to Him about it and our place in it. The Lord seeks our prayers as incense before him, as our hearts pour out towards the
God who has given himself for us. Ephesians 6:18, Colossian 4:2, Revelation 5:8.
The censer here is the frankincense censer.
Frankincense was just one of the four substances burnt on the golden altar:-
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(a) Stukti - liquid from a gum tree representing the Father who is the recipient of prayer.
(b) Onoika - shell ground up, the grinding representing judgment. When burnt the shell gave off a perfume
indicating propitiation.
(c) Galbanin - the fat of a plant showing prosperity and representing the resurrection of Christ.
(d)Frankincense - a white gum used in crowning kings - representing the session of Christ.
The angel fulfils in the heavenly temple the function of a priest in the earthly temple.
The altar depicted here is represented by the golden altar of incense in the Tabernacle - Exodus. 30:1-10
This altar stood before the veil. However, because of the finished work of Christ, there is no veil seen in heaven cf.
Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 10:20. As the incense rose up from before the Ark of the Covenant, so the prayers of the
saints come up before the Throne of God. God delights in our prayers and we are urged to constantly come boldly before
the throne of His Grace. Hebrews 4:16.
This specifies that all the saints both in heaven and on earth will offer up prayers to God for the brothers who are
suffering in the Tribulation and for the salvation of the lost. There is joy in heaven as every saint crosses over winning
the martyr’s crown, and for every soul that is saved as a result of the faithful testimony of the evangelists of those dark
days. Isaiah 53:5, Luke 15:3-10, 19:10, 1 Peter 2:24.
CHRIST: PROPHET, PRIEST AND KING
APPLICATION
Jesus Christ is the King - High Priest at the right hand of the Father.
The angel’s act of offering incense with the prayers of the saints indicates that God will answer the prayers of the saints,
prayers that have already been voiced in the fifth seal judgment. We are heard and the Lord loves to hear us.
The coals for the incense came from the altar of sacrifice. The picture is that the prayers of the saints are effective only
because they are offered "in the name of Jesus Christ." He is our only mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) and he seeks the
salvation of the lost and the blessing and glory of the saints.
8:4 And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of
the angel's hand.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The prayers come to God as a sweet smelling fragrance of faith. They are acceptable to Him. Prayer is a desired service
that we offer up to the Lord. He seeks our sweet fellowship through prayer and desires for us to perfect our love towards
our fellow saints and the lost as we pray for them. As we pray for people we build ourselves up in agape love for them
They include the requests of Revelation 6:10 for God to vindicate the faith of these martyrs. The saints of this day desire
that the faith of the martyred believers might be honoured and glorified by many coming to salvation and that Satan and
all who are determined to follow him might be judged and eliminated form the earth.
The limit of our love comes only when we see that the lost are determined to stay so and that nothing more can be done
to show them God’s love for them. This point is reached in the tribulation period and the saints mix prayers for salvation
and prayers for judgment, and for them at that time it is appropriate so to do.
For us in our own day it is always appropriate to pray for salvation while the unbeliever lives. John 16:8-11, 2 Peter 3:9.
APPLICATION
This is in keeping with the principle of Romans 12:17-21. Vengeance belongs to God. God will act, but only when grace
has exhausted its offer to save and deliver. When He acts to judge it is with finality. Hebrews 10:30-31, 12:29.
The blood of the Saints has great value in God's sight, and their deaths are precious to Him. Psalm 68:19-20, 72:14,
116:15, Jeremiah 15:1, 24:4-7.
Therefore these prayers are seen as part of the basis of coming judgment, for the days of grace are nearly over. While all
feel the sadness of this fact, all recognize the perfect righteousness and justice of God’s actions.
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8:5 And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth: and there were
voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The "fire of the altar" speaks of Judgment. Here again is the picture of the brazen altar and a reminder that all God’s
dealings with mankind centre around his perfect blood bought provision for salvation through the work of Jesus upon the
Cross.
The word “eis” translated “into” also means “throughout”; this means in this verse that the judgments are worldwide.
The fulfilment of all Old Testament sacrifices is Jesus Christ. He bore our Judgment on the Cross. 1 John 2:1-2.
However, those who refuse God's manifest love must suffer His wrath. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12, John 3:36.
The fire from the altar is cast upon the earth. In the last half of this chapter the first four trumpet judgments will affect the
sky and the earth. The sounds of thunder and the lightning and the earthquake picture coming judgment.
THE BRAZEN ALTAR
APPLICATION
When the prayers of persecuted saints go up the wrath of God will eventually come down. God waits for men to repent,
and even the worst men are given time, but it is limited, for God will always act, but in his time frame, and in his way.
Again we see that prayer is our way of walking with the Lord in his plan and his provision for his saints; prayer may be
seen as moving the arm that moves the world.
8:6 And the seven angels which had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The angels arrange themselves perhaps in the order in which they were to sound. They follow orders and set the
example for ourselves of operating in 100% obedience to the plan and purposes of God.
The way is now prepared for the sounding of the trumpets, and for the fearful judgments and changes upon the earth
which would be announced by each trumpet.
The last seal is opened; heaven stands in suspense to know what is to be disclosed; the censer of coals has been cast
to the earth, and the angels prepare to sound the trumpets indicative of what is to occur.
The judgments which feature in both the trumpet and bowl judgments are paralleled in many cases by the plagues which
the Lord sent against Egypt at the time of the Exodus. Like at the time of the Exodus, only unbelievers will be directly
injured and killed as a result of these judgments. Obedient believers have nothing to fear from these judgments.
THE PLAGUES OF EGYPT
1.
Exodus 7:14-25. The Nile was an idol river: it’s water worshipped as life-giving. The first plague turned these
waters into blood. God humiliated the Nile god. Pharaoh's heart was hardened (verse 22).
2.
Exodus 8:1-15. Hekt, the goddess with the frog's head, was exposed when the land brought forth frogs through
both Aaron and the Egyptian magicians. Pharaoh hardened his heart (verse 15).
3.
Exodus 8:16-19. This plague was directed against Seb, the earth god. The magicians fail and say that it is
God's work (verse 19). Pharaoh's heart was hardened (verse 19).
4.
Exodus 8:20-32. The flies probably were the scarab beetles, being against Scarabaeus the sacred beetle.
Having compromised, Pharaoh hardened his heart (verse 32).
5.
Exodus 9:1-7. The death of the Egyptian cattle was directed towards Apis, the sacred Egyptian bull. The Jewish
cattle were preserved. The heart of Pharaoh was hardened (verse 7).
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6.
Exodus 9:8-12. The affliction of boils was a judgment against Neit, the goddess of health. The Lord hardened
Pharaoh's heart (verse 12).
7.
Exodus 9:13-35. Hail and fire were judgments against Shu, the god of the atmosphere. Pharaoh's heart was
hardened (verse 35).
8.
Exodus 10:1-20. The Egyptians worshipped Serapia, the god of locusts. God sent a plague of locusts. The Lord
hardened Pharaoh's heart (verse 1,20).
9.
Exodus 10:21-29. The ninth plague, a supernatural darkness, showed how impotent Ra, the sun god was. The
Lord hardened Pharaoh's heart (verse 27).
10.
Exodus 11:1 - 12:36. The son of Pharaoh was the representative of the god-man. When the crown prince died,
Pharaoh allowed the children of Israel to go.
APPLICATION
Angels, both elect and fallen, are used to bring judgment on the earth.
They are all under divine control and orders. Even the demons cannot disobey the creator, and must respond to the will
of the God who made them. Jesus is the king of all kings and the Lord of all lords, and so in his name the demons
themselves quake with fear and flee from the believer. James 2:19, 4:7, 1 Peter 5:8-9, 1 John 4:4.
THE SOUNDING OF THE TRUMPETS. - Verses 7-13
THE FIRST TRUMPET
8:7 The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the
earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the earth’s dry surface is destroyed and so the last land suitable for food production is eliminated. Those who have
not stored food, in obedience to the scriptural warnings, will starve. The Lord tells people years in advance of these
judgments so that all who believe the Word can be safe. Believers have saved food/water in a lasting way and live.
This judgment finds its historical and Biblical parallel in the seventh plague of Egypt. Exodus 9:24
We are told that hail, fire and blood burned up a third of the earth, trees, and grass.
The phrase “was burnt up” is mentioned twice, obviously for dramatic effect in that it should be understood literally not
symbolically, and from the description here involves further tectonic activity.
Based on the Exodus reference we see that whilst this is actual physical judgment upon the earth and vegetation there is
a spiritual application as well. It is important to remember that, since man was made from the dust of the ground, the
earth is cursed whenever man is cursed. The judgments come upon the earth to punish man for his decision making that
has in itself made the earth a spiritual wasteland. The Lord himself will restore the earth after these terrible days.
The Hebrew word for man comes from Adamah, (Adam) which is earth. Compare this dual cursing in Genesis 3:14-19
and Romans 8:18-23.
In conjunction with this we find a symbolic and spiritual use of the three areas cursed here for mankind:
[a] "Earth" is used in 1 Corinthians 15:47 for the natural or “earthy" man, Adam.
[b] "Tree" in passages such as Daniel 4:11 and Matthew 3:10 along with Jeremiah 17:5-8 also speak of mankind.
[c] "Grass" is used for the human race in Isaiah 40:6-8 and 1 Peter 1:24 for the vanity and brevity of life apart from God.
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SEVEN JUDGMENTS - TRUMPET
The seven trumpet judgments occur as the second group of three judgment in the Tribulation
1.
Hail, Fire and Blood. (Revelation 8:7)
2.
Burning Mountain. (Revelation 8:8- 9)
3.
Wormwood. (Revelation 8:10-11)
4.
Universe Struck. (Revelation 8:12-13)
5.
Locusts. (Revelation 9:1-12)
6.
200 Million Strong Army. (Revelation 9:13-21)
7.
Seven Bowls Judgments. (Revelation 11:15-19)
APPLICATION
When this occurs there will be a tremendous famine on the earth when the green grass is wiped out by the volcanic fire
as the phrase grass would include all cereal crops.
With the loss of vegetation comes tremendous erosion and there will be great atmospheric pollution. If there is world
wide volcanism, which is apparently what is in view, there would be a complete blanket of ash around the earth affecting
the penetration of light and warmth also. Some are calling this the “nuclear winter” effect, and all crops die.
Because of these comparisons it is evident that the judgment here is both physical and spiritual, and will be part of the
judgment of the "strong delusion" that comes upon unbelieving members of the human race. They have followed the
devil’s strong delusion and so they must sit with the great evils that unfold around them, for this is the cost of following an
evil creature rather than seeking the creator’s solution to man’s problems.
THE SECOND TRUMPET
8:8 And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into the sea: and
the third part of the sea became blood; 8:9 And the third part of the creatures which were in the sea, and had
life, died; and the third part of the ships were destroyed.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the seas are affected by the second trumpet judgment.
There is something like a great burning mountain (volcano or comet) involved with this judgment.
This would appear to also have a strong volcanic element. There are examples of burning mountains such as in Hawaii,
and Sicily (Vulcan’s Forge of the ancients) due to continuous lava flows and volcanic activity.
Waters running with blood would normally indicate war as is the case in Isaiah 15:9, but this judgment also echoes the
first plague in Exodus 7:20-21, and may involve the iron rich dust of volcanic activity, or comet strike upon the earth.
Based on what we have seen with the first trumpet, we can make similar applications in the following trumpet judgments.
In fact, they appear even more clearly to refer to spiritual conditions.
Every symbol John uses may be found and explained elsewhere in Scripture. Here a "burning mountain" is cast into the
sea and turns the sea to blood destroying one third of life in it. This is a very specific and very physical disaster.
APPLICATION
The Lord who keeps the universe running by His will can also destroy His creation at will, 2 Peter 3:10ff, or use the
destructive force as a means of judgment. God knows exactly how far to go so that the believers are able to keep safe,
but the unbelievers are destroyed. The earth is judged but not totally destroyed. The Lord is going to return and deliver
the earth and the believers upon it.
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In the Tribulation period there will still be significant international trade involving ships, and the majority of it will be swept
from the seas by natural catastrophe, and made redundant by economic collapse and crop failures.
This judgment causes death by the contamination of the earth, but also starvation due to the destruction of marine food
supplies and the lack of ships to trade globally. This is added to the local food shortages caused by the destruction of
grass and cereal crops in the first judgment.
THE THIRD TRUMPET
8:10 And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp, and it fell
upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters; 8:11 And the name of the star is called
Wormwood: and the third part of the waters became wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because
they were made bitter.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This judgment destroys one third of the sweet, drinkable, or potable water.
Here we see a great star fall from heaven. Similar things are seen in Revelation 9:1 and again in Revelation 12:4 where
Satan is cast out of heaven.
The three symbolic uses of "star" are:
[a]
[b]
[c]
Angels. Isaiah 14:13; Job 38:7; Revelation 12:4
Teachers of Truth. Daniel 12:3
False teachers, religious leaders. Jude 13
This judgment also alludes to the poisonous plague of Exodus 7:20-21. Wormwood is found also in Jeremiah 9:15,
23:15 cf 8:14. It is used figuratively for idolatry in Deuteronomy 29:12, the fruits of adultery in Proverbs 5:4, and suffering
in Lamentations 3:19. Many will die purely from drinking of the bitter waters. Many species of wormwood grow in
Palestine, all species have a strong bitter taste, leading to the plant being a symbol of bitterness, sorrow and calamity.
This “wormwood” may be demonic in origin and indicate that demonic forces destroy the waters, or it may be a volcanism
or nuclear “accidents” that pollute the air and where the fallout lands upon water sources making them toxic.
In 1986 six "unbelievable" blunders caused the Chernobyl nuclear disaster which directly and immediately killed over 30.
Over 150,000 were evacuated from the area and most are now dying of radiation related cancers. It is also of interest
that Chernobyl is the Ukrainian word for 'wormwood', a bitter herb used in rural Russia as a tonic. It should be noted that
the third trumpet judgment in these verses involve a star named Wormwood, which caused water to turn bitter and many
men died. As a result of Chernobyl water and pasture across northern Europe was rendered unusable and toxic for a
time.
One commentator on Revelation notes. “Volcanic phenomena... in the Egean archipelago are in the background of this
description, and of others throughout the book; features such a the disturbance of islands and the mainland, showers of
stones, earthquakes, the sun obscured by a black mist of ashes, and the moon reddened by volcanic dust, were the
natural consequences of eruption in some submarine volcano, and Thera—adjoining Patmos—was in a state of more or
less severe eruption during the first century. All this suggested the hideous colours in which the final catastrophe was
painted by the imagination of pious contemporaries. In the eruption of 1573, the sea round Thera was tinted for twenty
miles round, and even when the submarine volcano is quiescent, ‘the sea in the immediate vicinity of the cone is of a
brilliant orange colour, from the action of oxide of iron.” In 1707 a large rock suddenly appeared in the sea, during the
eruption, and owing to noxious vapours ‘all fish in the harbour died.”
Tom McElmurry in a paper on this chapter notes as another possible cause of this red death on the waters. “When God
shifts the great tectonic plates, all the cracks on the ocean floors will open to produce long chains of oceanic eruptions.
As the magma begins to heat the oceans and seas of the world, many varieties of dinoflagellate will begin to reproduce
at fantastic rates. As the heating spreads, the dinoflagellate will spread, both by formation and transportation by the
currents of oceans and seas of the world. The sea will be turned red by both oxidation and organism secretion, both
creations of God. The same God who created the process of oxidation and all organisms has also created the
mechanism to slowly spread the blood-red shroud of poison across the oceans and seas of the world—the currents of
the “seven seas”. By the time the last drop of the second vial has been poured out, all aquatic life in the oceans and seas
will have been destroyed by this shield of death carried by the currents that daily move life through them”.
APPLICATION
It is perhaps appropriate to take the "great star" of Revelation 8:10 as being the same "star/comet" in 9:1. Here the star
poisons "springs of waters," which often represents Biblical instruction (John 4:10-14, 7:39). The perversion of Biblical
truth by satanic teachers under the false prophet is accompanied by demonic invasion and pollution of the water
supplies, by volcanic or nuclear accident means. Revelation 9:1-4. Therefore multitudes die in "bitterness" of Judgment
which wormwood represents (Jeremiah 9:15, 23:15). Nothing is more bitter than false doctrine.
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When Satan is cast from heaven in Revelation 12:4 he will empower Antichrist with the power of deception spoken of in 2
Thessalonians 2:8-12. His world-wide religion will poison the waters of truth producing spiritual corruption - Isaiah 57:20;
2 Peter 2:17; James 3:11; Jude 13.
Whilst these judgments deal with the tribulation period, pollution is already one of the world's most critical problems.
How do we get rid of waste atomic material, poisons, nerve gas? Put it in the sea, pump it in the rivers, place it in the
desert or in the case of aircraft pump it out into the atmosphere. There are vast toxic waste dumps everywhere on the
earth just waiting to release their toxic mess when tectonic activity opens them up. The United Nations environment
group believes that the Mediterranean may have gone past the point of no return.
In the early 1980s only 38% of the world's population had treated water supplies. 80% of communicable diseases involve
a water-borne medium. In the world during any year, over 400 million will suffer from gastroenteritis, 160 million with
malaria, 30 million with river blindness.
Acid rain has eliminated or is eliminating fish from 20,000 Swedish lakes. Sulphur dioxide is carried on the prevailing
winds from industry in the East and deposited as sulphuric acid on Scandinavia. During the spring thaw, acid
accumulated in the snow affects the water, killing fish and water life. Pollution is also affecting Japan, with chemicals
leaching into the water supplies of Tokyo. The nuclear accident after the tsunami in 2011 polluted land 20 miles away
and is poisoning the northern pacific ocean.
In the United States the city of Niagara was partially evacuated when toxic chemicals were dumped into the Love Canal.
Public protests have also occurred over the pollution of beaches by surgical wastes and hypodermic needles in NorthEastern United States. Pollutants are said to be causing the Greenhouse Effect, with the warming of the atmosphere and
consequent change in weather patterns. In the 1980s a large hole appeared in the ozone layer over the Antarctic, with a
significant thinning of the ozone layer occurring over the Arctic region. Much of the depletion of the ozone layer (which
helps protect man against skin cancer) has been blamed on aerosol propellants. This has continued to cause alarm.
In Guatemala, 40% of productive capacity has been lost to soil erosion. In Turkey 54% of the land is severely affected,
while 40% of Africa's non-desert regions are rapidly becoming unproductive, with resultant reduction in per capita food
production. In Haiti 14 million cubic metres of topsoil are lost each year, whilst in areas of Nepal 35-75 tonnes of soil per
hectare are lost. India suffers erosion by water and wind to 25% of the nation's total land area, and the other Asian giant
China, has lost 11 % of its arable land since 1957.
Whatever the specific causes this judgment causes death by contamination of the water and the earth. There is a parallel
here with the experience of the children of Israel at the water of Marah (Exodus 15:23-25). There the tree cast into the
bitter waters made them sweet, speaking prophetically of the atonement which Christ made on the cross which became
sweet to the sinner. The only hope through this time is a total trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. The bitterness of the
Tribulation period will be made sweet in the end only by the Second Coming of Christ. The Creator alone can restore the
terrible damage done to the earth by evil men through this time and our own polluting days beforehand.
THE FOURTH TRUMPET
8:12 And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of the moon,
and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day shone not for a third part
of it, and the night likewise.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This judgment utilises imagery from the ninth plague of Exodus 10:21-23. This darkness of that plague was said to be so
severe that it could be felt. Many ancient texts speak of darkness as a dreaded judgment and the Old Testament and
other Jewish texts associate it with the end time. This may refer to the results of the extensive volcanism already
discussed, as the ash layers in the upper atmosphere would darken the sky and make mid-day as dusk, stopping both
heat and light reaching the earth. Under the recent Icelandic Volcano, in May 2010, there has been a real recognition of
the dangers of this for human health. The fine dust darkens the day and it is palpable, but also fatal if inhaled, as the dust
sets like concrete in the lungs of people caught in the open.
The fourth trumpet will affect the sun, moon, and stars (vs. 12). In addition to the effects of straight volcanism there is
something bigger going on with the very rotation of the earth and the way the planets and stars operate. As we will see
later many of the stars are seen to fail at this time also. Remember, the light from distant stars has taken millions of years
to reach us, and the simultaneous failure of the light from stars is an event that the Lord must have planned millions of
years ago, and this is another clue to the creative power of Almighty God.
It is implied also that the uniformity of the day-night cycle will be changed, in that the twenty-four-hour cycle will be
shortened to a sixteen hour cycle. This phenomena will take place evidently as the result of the smiting of the sun, moon
and stars in some way as yet unclear. 2 Kings 20:11. There is a significant shift in the rotation pattern of the earth for a
time.
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The Lord Himself predicted in the Olivet discourse these "signs in the sun and in the moon, and in the stars" (Luke
21:25). Also, the Lord Jesus Christ mentions the shortening of days in Matthew 24:22.
APPLICATION
God has control over nature and will use changes in the light to judge the earth to bring men to conviction of sin and the
need of a Saviour, and that man by man’s efforts cannot solve man’s problems. The Anti-Christ’s lie has been that he
can solve the world’s problems by his own power, and even though his power is above all other men’s he is unable to
solve the real issues at all. God is demonstrating with each of these judgments that He alone is able to solve man’s
problems, but the unsaved majority keep hoping Anti-Christ will win!
Again in Revelation 16:10-11 we see a spiritual darkness on the kingdom of the beast producing severe pain for all who
follow after his delusions.
There have been days like those described here in such cities as Tokyo, Mexico City and Los Angeles when the pollution
has been so bad that people have had to turn their car lights on for safety. We have recently seen atmospheric smoke
cause the same in Moscow and Jakarta, and volcanism cause these problems in Iceland.
Even as far back as the early 1960’s a smoke inversion in London turned midday into night causing the street lighting to
come on and vehicles to use their headlights. Man has solved some of these things, but he cannot solve the disasters
here described, for the Lord ensures that all know that the Creator alone has the power required.
THE THREE WOES
8:13 And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, Woe, woe,
woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the three angels, which are yet
to sound!
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here God interrupts the quick succession of trumpet judgments with a flying messenger about the future in order to give
them a chance to repent. Grace remains God’s focus and all men who persist in evil are without excuse before their
maker and Saviour.
In some ancient texts the word translated angel is in fact an eagle. An eagle is a symbol in Scripture for vengeance
(Deuteronomy 28:49-50; Hosea. 8:1; Habakkuk 1:8). It is the symbol of majestic power and sharpness of sight. The
eagle sees all things and is fierce and swift to move to kill its prey. It is an awesome symbol of a warning messenger.
It warns the earth of the three woes to come.
“Mid heaven” is the level of heaven between the throne room of God, the third heaven and the atmosphere, the first
heaven.
APPLICATION
The messenger, which is probably a seraph, Revelation 4:7, is high up so that all can see and hear his warnings.
The announcement of three impending woes indicates that as bad as the first four judgments have been the final three
are even worse.
The three woe judgments comprise two angelic/demonic invasions and the bowl judgments.
It is not the will of God that any should perish but that all should come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. - 2
Peter 3:9. In the midst of all judgment here there is grace, mercy and peace offered to all who will come to God through
Christ.
CONCLUSION
In summing up the scope of the first four trumpet judgments it may be noted that all of God's creation is affected, for most
of it has been polluted by the evils of men and these evils have been brought to a high level by the work of the Anti-Christ
and his followers.
In the first three trumpets the land, seas, rivers, and mountains of waters, were all subject to God's wrath, so that men
might see what they have done to His earth and themselves by their worship of the Beast.
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The fourth trumpet involves the heavens themselves. The very presence of all these aspects of nature which are so
essential to human life and existence is referred to by Paul in Romans 1:20 as manifesting God in His eternal power,
Fearful as these judgments are, they are only the beginning of God's dealings with the evil men upon the earth. For John
now saw an "angel " announcing a threefold woe "for them that dwell on the earth."
The means of punishment will be the last three trumpets of the angels which are yet to sound,
The warning is that trumpets five six, and seven will increase in divine displeasure and consequent disaster.
The first woe, Revelation 9:1-11:- locusts will come upon the earth,
The second:- Revelation 9:13-21, will be seen in the Euphrates horsemen whilst
The third we see in the handing over of the earth to the Beast-worship of chapter 13 which is the worst of all by far.
NOTES
CHAPTER NINE
THE FIRST AND SECOND WOE
Introduction
The background of this chapter is found in the last verse of Chapter 8. Three "woes" are announced for those dwelling on
the earth.
In the first "woe" (9:1-12), the earth is invaded by a demonic horde; in the second (9:13-21), there is an invasion from the
East. The final "woe" is the invasion of our Lord at the Second Advent (11:14-19). Evil men and evil demons conspire to
create hell indeed upon the earth in these last months of the Great Tribulation period.
As we will see in detail in Chapter 12, the Tribulation is called a "time of wrath" because during this time the wrath of
God, the wrath of Satan, and the wrath of man will be poured out upon the earth. Satan is simply malice filled, desiring
to draw as many of mankind into the Lake of Fire with him that he can. God’s wrath is purifying, for in the judgments
there is always grace offered, for God seeks man’s salvation whereas Satan simply seeks man’s destruction.
To describe the strange yet awesome scenes, the apostle John employs similes with frequency. In fact, in the whole
chapter there are more occurrences of the words "as" and "like" than in any chapter in the whole Bible which shows how
difficult it was for John to describe the scene which he saw in the vision. Remember John is seeing these things and he
is finding it hard to find words at points to describe what he sees without making the description incomprehensible.
The fifth trumpet or the first woe is the invasion of the fallen angels from Tartarus, kept there for thousands of years since
after the great flood of Noah, the second woe is the direct invasion of 200 million demons under the control of four
demonic leaders.
The first woe tortures the unbelievers, the second kills one third of the world’s surviving population. Demons hate their
followers! Remember the gods of the heathen nations are demons, and paganism and idolatry are demonic in origin. The
false gods of the world are fairly benign at this point, and deceive their followers today, but in this final day the “gloves
are off” for they know they have very limited time, and their real malice towards mankind is unleashed by Satan. He
seeks to destroy all people, for then the Lord has no-one to come back to deliver!
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9:1 And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key
of the bottomless pit.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Comparison with Revelation 12:4 suggests that we are dealing with an angelic being of some sort, possibly demonic.
Further, this angel is one and the same as "the angel of the abyss". It is this creature that will indwell Antichrist in
Revelation 17:8, so we have no hesitation to identify him as a senior demon.
Since Antichrist is called "the son of destruction" and he "whose coming is in accord with the activity of Satan", cf. 2
Thessalonians 2:3-9, this "star" appears to be Satan himself, who will be finally cast out from all access to heaven in
Revelation 12:9.
Satan has three falls:[a] The first was before time when he tried a coup d’etat in heaven - Isaiah 14, Ezekiel 28.
[b] The second is in Revelation 12 before us when he is ejected from heaven half way through the Tribulation.
[c] The third is when he is thrown into the Lake Of Fire at the end of the millennium. Revelation 20.
He falls to earth, and now knows that the time clock is ticking for his destruction, and so he must unleash all his malice
quickly and brutally. Revelation 12:4, Luke 10:18, Isaiah 14:12.
To him, Satan, was given the key to the bottomless pit. Note that it was a person as the key is given to “him” showing
that this is not a literal star. It also reminds us that he has to be “given” the key, for he does not have the power to obtain
it himself. He will release his demonic counterparts from there for their last evil rampage, and thereby judge both men
and the demons, for their release opens the door for them to repent if they wished to after so many thousand years in jail!
The word for abyss is abussos with “a” meaning no, and “bussos” depth, a hole with no bottom.
The word to fall “pipto” is in the perfect tense, which means that means once he has fallen Satan is no longer allowed
access to heaven.
APPLICATION
The bottomless pit holds perhaps millions of fallen angels. It is a temporary holding area for the fallen angels who will
eventually be cast with Satan into the Lake of Fire. They were locked there after the great rebellion that led to the near
destruction of mankind in Genesis 6, that required the flood to cleanse mankind of the mixed race demon-men.
This was the place that the demons feared to be sent when cast out of the living by Christ. Luke 8:31. They are under
the final control of God and follow the orders of Jesus; they can do no other thing.
Not all demons are confined there at this time. Those who are await release so that they can unleash judgments on
mankind. They were there for punishment, but they have retained their malice through the millennia, and so they prove
the Lord just in his eventual judgment of them in the Lake of Fire. Those who want the paganism of the old “gods” will
certainly get it in this day and the hatred of these demons for man is extreme.
If this is Satan who unlocks the bottomless pit to release his supporters it shows how restricted Satan is by God and that
he can only do what God allows.
9:2 And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace;
and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
God allows Satan to open the bottomless pit but he puts some restrictions on it – for he remains in control of all his
creatures, even those who have so grossly rebelled against him as these demons have.
Smoke arose out of the abyss showing that there is fire in the abyss. 2 Peter 2:4.
There was so much smoke that came out of the pit that the sun was darkened.
The invasion is announced by a major smoke screen, which may indicate that as the pit is opened more volcanism
occurs. It is thought by some that Hell/Hades is at the centre of the earth and it may be that the pit is there also and the
release of the demons comes with a massive amount of world wide tectonic activity again.
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APPLICATION
So dense was the smoke that the sun and the air were darkened, portraying visibly the spiritual corruption that inhabits a
horrible place in which many evil and strange things are shut up,
This also shows that there is a literal fire in Hell/Hades.
9:3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions
of the earth have power.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word used for “power” shows that they were given authority/permission to perform the first woe. These demons are
simply expressing their deeply felt desires anyway, but they are able to be used by the Lord to bring judgment as a
result, for they are judging their own followers.
These are angels but they are classified as scorpions because of their effect upon those they attack.
The sting of a scorpion is very painful, often debilitating, but rarely fatal. They create ongoing annoyance and grief.
This plague recalls the eighth plague of Exodus 10:12
Since these beings come from the bottomless pit, we can identify them in Scripture. In Jude 6 we read of a group of
fallen angels who left their rightful domain, and as a result were confined to "chains of darkness."
It should be noted that they are kept "for the judgment of the great day" (Day of The Lord), and the phrase in verse 7,
"just as", which suggests the similarity of their sin with the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah. These same angels are
spoken of in 2 Peter 2:4-5 where they are related to the days of Noah. Again in 1 Peter 3:19-20 we read of "spirits in
prison, who were once disobedient in the days of Noah." They are also referred to in Genesis 6:2 as "sons of God." This
term is used only four times in the old Testament and always is used for angels cf. Job 1:6, 2:1, 38:7.
These are none other than Satan's super-elite who sought to infiltrate the human race through the women so that there
could be no Messiah. They wanted to create a half breed race of men and demons and so destroy the pure race of
mankind and so destroy the hope of a messiah. This was one of Satan's many attacks on the woman foretold in Genesis
3:15.
APPLICATION
The demons who have been in Tartarus since the flood are released to form the demonic invasion of the first woe.
God is in total control and gives very clear boundaries to demons as to what they can do.
They are so bad that God has kept them chained in darkness since the time of Noah.
God will not test you above what you are able to bear - 1 Corinthians 10:13. Those who face these demons are people
who have worshipped them and their leader Satan. The pagans get what they want in that day, a super-abundance of
demons to play with, except they are played with!
9:4 And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing,
neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“That” introduces a purpose clause that they would not hurt any of nature – God is protecting the earth – even at this very
late time, and the earth will recover from the demonic onslaught.
“Commanded” which is the verb “rheo”, is in the indicative mood, showing the reality of the action, the aorist tense at a
point of time, the passive voice, they receive the instruction.
Those judged by this woe are unbelievers, as they have not the seal of the living God on their forehead. All they have to
do to be released from demonic attack is bow their knee before the Lord Jesus, and if they do they enter under his
covering. Many do this and are saved, but most choose to stay with Satan, worship him, and be abused by his servants!
Unsaved people must work very hard to get into the Lake of Fire!
The security of divine sealing is given here. Back in Revelation 7:1-8 we saw the sealing of the Jewish evangelists. Now
we see the purpose of this sealing. When this demonic horde is unleashed on the earth, they will have one restriction.
They are permitted to harm anyone except those who have the seal of God upon them, which is His name. Revelation
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14:1. God’s protection is over his people, and so just as the Exodus generation were protected from the plagues that
came upon Egypt so the believers of this time are protected by God’s grace.
Cain was also protected by the mark of God in Genesis 4:15.
APPLICATION
God does judge using nature but he does not allow angels to do so.
The fact that the universe is held together and that so called scientific laws exist shows the omnipotence and immutability
of God.
He can however vary the “scientific laws” if he desires to, or use them to bring upon mankind their “just desserts” for they
abuse of the creation with pollution and toxic dumping.
We are under his protection from demonic attack in this life, unless like Job we are to be an example to the angelic
realm. Believers are protected, for the Lord is with us, the Holy Spirit within us and a guardian angel behind us.
Believers of this day in the future are also well protected and are safe from these judgments.
As Israel in Egypt escaped the plagues which afflicted their neighbours, so the new Israel in the form of the 144,000 is
exempted from the attack of the locusts of the abyss, as are their converts.
This security applies to us as well. Every believer in Jesus Christ is sealed at the moment of salvation by the Holy Spirit
(Ephesians 1:13-14). The security of the seal we have is seen in Ephesians 4:30; we are "sealed for the day of
redemption." Since the word seal means a pledge, down-payment or guarantee, we know that every one who trusts
Christ is secure forever.
Paul uses this term in Romans 15:28 to mean the safe deliver of valuables entrusted to him. Even so, Christ, to whom
we have entrusted our souls, will bring us safely to Himself.
9:5 And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and
their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here God allows fallen angels from the abyss to torment unbelievers for five months but not allow them to be killed. Here
the demonic “scorpions” sting but the unbelievers do not die. This is grace within judgment, for every attack is a rebuke
and an opportunity to call out to God for salvation and deliverance. Those who get to the end of five months of torment
and are still determined to serve Satan truly deserve to be with him forever.
Scorpion stings are amongst the most intense pains known to man. 1 Kings 12:11, 2 Chronicles 10:14. Though the
affliction here described is not actually a sting of a scorpion, it is compared to the pain and suffering caused by such a
sting.
It is of interest that five months fits the normal life span of a natural locust.
SUFFERING
APPLICATION
God is in control of all creatures and while he will use them to judge people he has the ultimate power to control how far
they go. Satan and his followers amongst the demons is limited, and against a Spirit Filled believer is impotent except to
deceive those who walk away from the Word and the Spirit.
God is omnipotent; Satan is not.
This judgment is hugely painful but not fatal. People have maximum pain and maximum opportunity to repent because of
it. Those under judgment will live out their full cycle of this judgment on the earth. They will have the full time to repent.
Only those really determined to serve Satan will join him in the Lake of Fire.
9:6 And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee
from them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Those affected by this judgment want to die but cannot. Suicide in this time will not be successful.
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There will be five months of screaming without death. God keeps them from death to ensure none can ever stand before
him and complain about their final judgment. All will be silent at the Great White Throne because all will know that they
are guilty and beyond any excuses for their rejection of Jesus.
“Epithumeo” means to desire greatly.
The full impact of “epithumeo” can be seen by analysis, as it is in the third person plural, future tense, active voice,
indicative mood, so that all the people are actively greatly desiring to die in this future time because of the pain.
History records that the Roman soldiers were famous at taking pain without flickering an eye but when several of them
were bitten by scorpions in the deserts of Egypt they screamed and writhed in agony.
APPLICATION
People will have to suffer all the torment in all its satanic fury. The timing of a person’s death is the prerogative of God,
and these people must acknowledge the rulership of God the father or they will keep on suffering. These people probably
are sharing various methods of committing suicide and areas where they have tried and failed. They need to bow before
the Lord and be saved, not serve their abuser and seek death!
9:7 And the shapes of the locusts were like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads were as it
were crowns like gold, and their faces were as the faces of men.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Since these are super creatures certain analogies are used to bring out what they look like or to indicate their power.
The demons are numerous as locusts but are shaped like horses. Remember John is using symbolic language to help
people reading this visualize something that is beyond his ordinary words. He is amazed and overwhelmed by these evil
creatures when he gets a glimpse of them. John is in heaven and so he is “seeing” the future as it will be played out in
advance!
These creatures have faces of men which indicates intelligence and organisation, but it is demonic malice that drives
them, and their hatred of mankind knows no bounds.
APPLICATION
Wherever the locust like creatures went it devastated everything. These are satanic destroyers and malicious. Satan
hates his own followers, and it is this understanding that mankind needs to have now and in these dark days. All that is
needed to break the satanic grip is to bow before the Lord God.
In the ancient world cavalry represented power, shock and intimidation to those subject to their attention.
In a modern situation tanks would have a similar affect on infantry. These creatures are fear inducing and pain
producing!
9:8 And they had hair as the hair of women, and their teeth were as the teeth of lions.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The hair of women indicates that they were glamorous. Clearly John is having difficulties describing these creaturedemons, for we have the mixture of scorpion, locust, woman’s hair and teeth like lions. Don’t make the mistake of trying
to draw these, for the symbols used express their characteristics, not necessarily their exact appearance. John is doing
the best he can to give an impression, but we cannot be sure exactly how these creatures will look, but they have
glamour and beauty coupled with fierceness, and the ability to cause mayhem, like locusts, and great pain like scorpions.
APPLICATION
Angels, both elect and fallen, are very beautiful and attractive to man. It was Satan’s great beauty that led to his pride
and arrogance in rebellion against God. Demons are not ugly unless they choose to be for some reason; they are
beautiful creatures and deceive by their beauty and apparent benign natures. All the statues of the gods and goddesses
of the ancient world have great beauty, and often overt sexual attraction. This is the clue to their satanic origin, for the
elect angels never appear as sexually provocative women and never appear in any manner to deliberately excite sexual
attention, as the pagan gods did. The only time we have men sexually excited by elect angels was in Sodom. These
men were perverted and demonically controlled men. Genesis 19.
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The attractiveness of the demons is demonstrated by the events outlined in Genesis 6:1-6 where there were able to
enter into relationships with human females and produce a half demon-half man race of “heroes”. The fallen angels are
so powerful that we need to stay close to the Lord by being controlled by the Holy Spirit so that we can claim, “Greater is
he that is in you than he that is in the world”. 1 John 4:4.
Satan and his horde will look for the sickly and weak minded fools who have believed the Anti-Christ’s lies, and they will
attack them like raging lions. James 4:7-8, 1 Peter 5:8-9.
9:9 And they had breastplates, as it were breastplates of iron; and the sound of their wings was as the sound of
chariots of many horses running to battle.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Breastplates of Iron refers to the Roman soldier whose breastplate was well known. These were powerful and would stop
most sword and arrow blows, and these creatures cannot be killed for they are well armoured against all that mere men
can throw against them. They are not able to stand against God, and so all who call upon the name of the Lord Jesus
are immediately delivered. Their armour is as deceptive as their power; it is limited by God, and any men who stand
against them in Jesus name are safe.
Both metaphors here, the clatter and clangour of the chariot wheels and the prancing of the horses are found in Joel 2:45 which says “The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen, so shall they run. 5 Like the
noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble, as a
strong people set in battle array.”
Their wings were very noisy increasing the level of apprehension in their victims. In the ancient world the cavalry charge
often paralysed the enemy with fear. Those who do not fear God will find fear of these demons comes easily!
APPLICATION
The demons are well equipped, invincible to unsaved men, and organised on a military basis.
They are also single minded in their attack, knowing that this is their last chance to thwart the plan of God by hurting all
men they can.
9:10 And they had tails like unto scorpions, and there were stings in their tails: and their power was to hurt men
five months.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The scorpion has a sting in the tail and these creatures hurt by stinging unsaved men and women as a scorpion does.
The time again is given for the length of the first woe; it will last for five months of suffering for unsaved mankind.
The natural enemy of the Romans who ruled the western world was the Pathians. These people were known for their
backward archery. They would retreat uphill mounted on horseback and when the unwary Roman legions pursued them
they would shoot their arrows from the rear thus illustrating a sting in their tails. This technique was effective in wiping out
several legions before the Romans fully understood their tactics and learned not to follow them up hills.
APPLICATION
Demons are able if they have authority to torture men in a most painful way. Job 1:12
They have spent over four thousand years waiting to be released and thinking about what they will do and they unleash
their malice upon all the unsaved men they can find and hurt. Satan does not look after his own!
9:11 And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue
is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
There is a chief angel-demon as their leader. This angel later indwells Antichrist. Revelation 11:7, 17:8
He is called the destroyer – Apollyon in the Greek language.
It is not natural for the insect locusts to have a king over them as this group does, again showing the language here as
an analogy. Proverbs 30:27. John is using symbols to try to catch the flavour of what he has seen.
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The Dead Sea Scrolls, which date from before the days of Jesus, also linked the demon Abbadon with the angel of the
pit.
DEMONISM
DEMON INDUCED ILLNESS
APPLICATION
There is such a place as Tartarus where evil spirits are kept at this point under lock and key.
God has control of this angelic prison.
Even fallen angels have to obey the Lord.
“Greater is he that is in us than he that is in the world”.
After his victory at the Cross the Lord Jesus Christ went to Tartarus to tell the fallen angels that their plan of Genesis 6
had failed and that victory over them was won. They are seeking revenge upon mankind and Satan is given permission
to use them, and they take full advantage of the chance to hurt men and women who have rejected God.
9:12 One woe is past; and, behold, there come two woes more hereafter.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This announces the second woe which will be covered in verses 13 to 21.
“Past” means completed or finished.
APPLICATION
God is unchangeable and his plan is a reflection of his character.
God gives opportunity again and again for the lost to repent. None can ever stand before God and say He did not give
them many opportunities to be saved through this awful time.
THE SECOND WOE
9:13 And the sixth angel sounded, and I heard a voice from the four horns of the golden altar which is before
God,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Again we see the golden altar where the prayers of the saints are received.
This was placed in the Tabernacle adjacent to the Holy of Holies and the mercy seat where the presence of God was
and John clearly sees that in heaven there is the original altar of incense, of which Moses was just a copy. Exodus 30.
APPLICATION
God will always hear prayers offered to him in the power of the spirit.
He may however say “wait until my timing is right”.
9:14 Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, Loose the four angels which are bound in the great river
Euphrates.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
There are four angels seen by John as restraining the Euphrates river as a boundary between the East and the West.
The traditional boundary between the Parthian and Roman Empires was the Euphrates river.
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It is significant that they are at the river Euphrates. This was established by God as the boundary of Israel’s land grant in
the Abrahamic covenant Genesis 15:18. It also acted as the eastern boundary of the Roman Empire.
For a brief time the kingdoms of both David and Solomon were extended to the Euphrates. I Chronicles. 18:3,
II Chronicles 9:26.
This same river has always been the natural boundary separating the nations of the east from Palestine. Its broad stream
flowed between Israel and her enemies Assyria and Babylon.
APPLICATION
The source of this invasion is at the Euphrates and not in China, but in Mesopotamia or ancient Babylonia-Persia.
God uses angels to control geographical areas of the spread of nation states and creation itself.
The Lord has control of His creation – and control of history itself, for the Lord alone knows the end from the beginning.
9:15 And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for
to slay the third part of men.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Their job is to open up the national boundaries that have kept men apart and allow wars of conquest that have no
limitations upon them from the angelic forces, and the result is the evil politicians under Satan’s sway launch wars that
slay one third of the survivors of the human race over the next year and a bit.
These evil angels (demonic forces) were prepared for this particular hour; the text literally states "which had been
prepared for the hour and day and month and year". They have been kept “in” the river until this moment, and only now
are their released to fulfil their part in destiny. These angels are under the orders of the Lord and are ready to fulfil the
will of the Lord exactly, even though they will act from their own malice.
At exactly the right moment the national boundaries come down and the armies massed and eager to slaughter are let
loose upon them and these four angels lead them in their own deep malice. The question remains at present, are these
armies demonic or human? From the description below in verses 17-19 they appear to be demonic, not human at all.
If we compare Revelation 16:12-16 we see that the river Euphrates must be dried up to prepare for the invasion of "The
Kings from the Rising Sun", which currently represents a coalition of eastern countries such as India, Indo-China, China,
and Japan. This later invasion is clearly human, but this first one described in Chapter nine may not be at all.
In the very last year(s) of the Great Tribulation it appears that the unbelievers in these eastern places feel they are
“missing out” on the spoils of war in the Middle East and they launch their armies across the expanses of the east, but
what we read of in chapter nine is an altogether different thing.
APPLICATION
This judgement was to specifically kill the killers of the martyrs who have been asking the Lord to avenge them. We must
keep remembering that those people killed here are the people who have served Anti-Christ and are determined to keep
doing so. Even those who later rebel against him in the end, Daniel 11:36-44, still serve Satan. These people are
determined to fight over spoils as the world’s tectonic plates burst and volcanism and earthquakes rock the earth. They
are so focused on power and other lusts that they don’t care if they inherit a wasteland as long as they inherit it!
Again, one sees the sovereign hand of God working all these events for His own glory and in His own time. These evil
demons and the evil men they kill will not inherit the earth, for the Lord has determined that, “the meek shall inherit the
earth”. Matthew 5:5.
These four angels now let loose a great horde of horsemen/mobile demonic armies from across the Euphrates. At the
exact hour, day, month, and year they will act. Inspite of themselves they will fulfil the will of the Lord.
9:16 And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand: and I heard the
number of them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The phrase two hundred thousand thousand in the Greek is “duo murias murias”, or two ten thousand, ten thousand.
The Greek word murias is the word from which we derive the English word myriad meaning countless.
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These are not two hundred million Chinese soldiers as some have argued. The actual figure may be anywhere between
20,000,000 and 200,000,000. There is no way such a force of me could be launched across this river, and this is the first
indication that this “army” is demonic. Note the following facts.
[a] They are led by 4 fallen angels
[b] The location of the army’s starting point for its carnage is said to be the Euphrates where Babylon is located.
[c] The description of this army that is given rules out the possibility of this army being human.
[d] The kings of the east are not connected with this at all. They come later to take advantage of the carnage caused by
this first invasion.
Another description of this angelic/demonic invasion is given in Joel 1:15-2:11.
APPLICATION
The second woe is made up of up to 200 million demons under the control of four leaders.
The 200 million demonic army was as much as the estimated population of the whole earth at the time of writing; this
was an unthinkable sized force.
This reminds us that there are a huge number of fallen angels; most confined still in Tartarus at this point.
There is a principle drawn from the Scriptures that the final number of believers will equal the number of fallen angels. It
is of note that this 200 million are only a part of the fallen angels, as many demons are active on the earth today, so the
number of believers in heaven eventually will be very large indeed.
9:17 And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of
jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued
fire and smoke and brimstone. 9:18 By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the
smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths. 9:19 For their power is in their mouth, and in
their tails: for their tails were like unto serpents, and had heads, and with them they do hurt.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Fire comes out of the mouths of these fallen angels.
They have heads like lions, the most fierce of the wild animals.
The dark blue of the jacinth could represent the colour of the smoke of sulphur’s flame. This would be an indication and
symbol of their origin from the pit of Hell (Tartarus).
There are three ways which the people will be killed, by fire or burning, smoke or suffocation and brimstone or explosion.
This is not symbolic as shown by the indicative mood, the mood of reality. People die quite physically of these things,
and each of these means of death can be related to volcanism and its effects. These beings are described as very
efficient killers with visible methods of destruction both fore and aft.
APPLICATION
These demons are hugely powerful. They are numerous and terrifying.
It is hardly surprising that the Lord says that this will be the worst time in the history of man.
This slaughter will be over a billion people under present population conditions.
They will be throughout the world and the western nations will not be able to sit back and watch these problems on their
televisions as it will be in their own lounge room itself.
This horde of fallen angels will relish the idea of eliminating the human race and they will try to, but they are unable to kill
believers, and unable to kill even all the unbelievers.
God can use the ungodly to discipline the disobedient, by using their own hatreds and lusts to achieve the Plan. These
demons hate mankind, just like their master Satan himself. Those who serve Satan are fools indeed, for they worship
their own murderer.
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9:20 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their
hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood:
which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:
Analysis and Background
The people who survived this woe did not repent or change their mind about God. They preferred to worship material
idols which cannot hear or walk to their aid. This verse reminds us that the punishment upon mankind through this
period is measured, for the Lord wants to ensure that none have any excuse for rejecting Jesus. All have ample
opportunity to be saved but refuse to bow their knee to the Lord, while they worship the one who torments and kills them.
They worship the demons that have tormented them for five months and have just destroyed one third of their number.
Old Testament and Jewish writers of the time often ridiculed the worship of idols who were less powerful than those who
had made them. Psalm 135:15-18, Isaiah 46:6-7. That pagans worshipped demons was also widely accepted in Jewish
circles. 1 Corinthians 10:20.
FREE WILL
IDOLATRY
APPLICATION
Here we see the free will of man operating under the worst conditions ever and still refusing to accept God’s grace gift of
salvation.
Later in the Millennium we see perfect environment with the fallen angels, including Satan, bound for a thousand years
and yet at the end of the thousand years myriads of people believe the lie of Satan who is released for a short while.
Revelation 20:7-10.
This shows not only the reality of man’s free will, but also that neither intense pressure, or perfect environment is the
solution to man’s problems. The solution to man’s problem is repentance and acceptance of Christ as Saviour.
Mans volition must decide his eternal destiny. John 3:36. God does all he can without violating man’s free will to get
people to bow before the Lord Jesus, but the majority refuse.
9:21 Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These people did not change their mind about the truth of Jesus, and they demonstrated this by maintaining a positive
attitude towards their sinful natures. They preferred to keep sinning in gross ways rather than worship Jesus.
The sins of these people are not tiny lusts in their minds; these people have given themselves over to great overt evils.
Romans 1:18-32. Sorceries means drug addiction. Drug and alcohol use often lead to sexual immorality, and in this day
all of Satan’s tricks are used to the limit. Jewish people in the ancient world often considered unrepentance in the face of
obvious judgments a sign of stupidity. Exodus 7:22-23.
Immorality and idolatry were both standard parts of Graeco Roman culture but thieves and sorcerers were considered
dangerous by common consent. All moral values are gone from pagan society by this day, and people murder with
impunity, commit all sexual acts without restraint, steal and rob by violence, and do not care for their neighbours. Can
you now see why the Lord orders all believers to “flee to the mountains” in this time, for unless they hide from evil men
they will be murdered by them.
FRUIT OF THE OLD SIN NATURE
APPLICATION
The Tribulation will be the greatest period in history for drug addicts of all descriptions.
Less than four decades ago when we were at college studying, we cannot recall anyone using illegal drugs, except those
who were seen to be “fools”. Occasionally a film such as the "Man with the Golden Arm" was released. However, the
general consensus of opinion on addicts was that anyone who ended up in that condition was very foolish.
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What a change in the years from the 1970s to 2010 occurred. With the every-increasing rate of change of events,
instability in the nation, in the family, and work prospects, and a frantic search for happiness, the widespread use of
drugs by many thousands of people has evolved. The papers tell graphically how the situation is deteriorating year by
year. This is a sign of the end times and we cannot expect the “war on drugs” to be won – we have the devil himself
behind it and he is preparing this world for the total takeover of evil amongst fallen men.
Drug abuse has already become the number-one health problem in the United States, with over 20 million smoking
marijuana, four million regularly using cocaine and over 500,000 using heroin and the new synthetics.
It is of interest to note that the four most prevalent sins in the Tribulation are already present trends in the world. It is no
coincidence that the sins listed here are four of the most serious problems facing law enforcement authorities today in
2014. Drug related occultic activities are a natural progression from drug taking. The taking of drugs often leads into
astrology and witchcraft with the drugs being laid aside to the more stimulating experiences with the spirit world. In the
scriptures the word translated “witchcraft” is pharmakeia – our word for drugs. Drug taking has always been a satanic
operation in association with paganism. People who reject Christ in the Tribulation will not only believe in demons but
also worship them in the coming world religion - Mystery Babylon; this will possibly be a drug influenced religion.
There will be great immorality and complete breakdown in family relationships amongst the unbelievers of these evil
days. There has been traditionally contest between separated parents for custody of the children but increasingly cases
have occurred where neither parent wants the children. This is a sign of satanic influence, when the parents are so
narcissistic that they don’t care for their own offspring, but do care about their drugs, their religion and their sexual
partners.
Remember – those practising these sins and evils and suffering because of these things are unbelievers, and they are
determined to remain so. The believers who have heard the Word of God and acted upon it by this stage are in hiding in
the wild places of the world waiting for the Lord’s return.
BASIC TACTICS OF THE MODERN CULTS (These are Satan’s precursors to the final “religion”)
1.
Denial of the sufficiency of Christ's work on the Cross. (2 Peter 2:1) Something will always be added to faith
alone as a requirement for salvation.
2.
There is usually the addition of some uninspired "book" or a teaching that is not from the Scripture. 2 John 9
3.
The most effective cults in most places (ie: Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, the "Moonies" etc.) give lip
service to the Bible, but deny it's fundamental teachings. 1 John 2:19
4.
In order to disguise themselves and secure their hold on the ones they deceive, there is always a claim that "we
are the only true religion " 2 Corinthians 11:13-15.
5.
A final, but convincing, evidence of cultism is that there is always the use of some fear to hold followers. With
some it is a promise of security in coming calamity. Others claim to be the only way to heaven, or at least the
highest echelon of those who will be in heaven. Satan's power is fear Hebrews 2:14-15.
NOTES
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CHAPTER TEN
INTRODUCTION
This and the following chapter flow into one another and introduces to us the heralds of the Second Advent.
On the basis of continuity the chapter break at 10:11 is inappropriate. Remember the chapter and verse divisions were
added to the text of scripture in the 1430s as part of the printing process. When printing was developed in the early
1420s the first books printed were Bibles, and to assist the process and not lose their place when binding the books
together the books were divided into chapters and verses so that the binding would be accurate. Until that time the Bible
was hand written by scribes in paragraphs that were tied to the original Hebrew and Greek texts.
The heralds consist of a mighty angel in chapter 10 and two human heralds in the form of Moses and Elijah in chapter 11
This is in contrast with the many angels at the first advent and the single human herald, John the Baptist.
Beginning with chapter ten a section is introduced which continues on through to the end of chapter fifteen. This section
also forms the longest interlude between judgments.
Here between the sixth and seventh trumpets a number of revelations are narrated by John.
The vision which John received at this point, is the longest in the whole book, for the words, "I saw", do not appear again
until chapter thirteen verse one.
10:1 And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon
his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Allos” means another of a similar kind contrasted with “heteros” which means another of a different kind.
Clothed is in the perfect tense which means that he was clothed with what is fact a coat of arms and that he continues to
bear this coat of arms. This angel will be described so that the contrast between him and the earlier fallen angels is
absolutely clear. God’s servants are visibly different to the servants of Satan. Matthew 7:13-26.
The coat of arms includes:[a].
Cloud. In Scripture clouds are used often to represent the glory of God. In Exodus 19:16 there is the cloud that
enveloped Sinai.
In Matthew 17:5 there is the cloud that came down on the mount of transfiguration. Jesus is to return in the
clouds with great glory. Revelation 1:7, Psalm 104:3, Isaiah 19:1, Daniel 7:13
[b]
Rainbow. The rainbow is also a familiar picture of God's faithfulness. It first appears in Gen. 9:12-13, in the
covenant with Noah.
We saw in Revelation 4:3 the emerald rainbow which spoke of God's mercy.
[c]
Sun. The Sun is the "light of the world," a picture of Christ, "The Sun of Righteousness" in Malachi 4:2.
This is the face Paul saw in Acts 9:3 and the same appearance the Lord had when He was transfigured in
Matthew 17:2 cf Moses in Exodus 24:39
[d]
Feet of Fire. We have seen this before in Rev. 1:15 as a symbol of Divine Judgment. In Revelation 14:20 we
will see Christ treading out the winepress of God's judgment.
The Greek term for book used here is the diminutive form which should be translated "a little book".
APPLICATION
Two of the areas of the coat of arms, the cloud and rainbow, relate to the Second Advent. The count down to the Lord’s
return has begun in earnest and the unbelievers upon the earth have limited time now to repent, and the believers limited
time to wait.
The sun and the pillars of fire can be seen to comply with John 3:36 indicating believers, the sun and judgment on the
unbelievers, the pillars of fire.
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10:2 And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot on the
earth,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Open “anoigo” is a perfect, passive, participle. The perfect tense means that it was opened at the time of the Cross with
a result that the book, which is the title deed of the earth, is open for ever. The Lord is indeed the King of all kings and
the Lord of all lords. He has retaken the title of the earth, but left Satan for the purpose he is still to play in sifting mankind
into saved and lost.
It is in the passive voice which means that the book received opening at the cross and it remains open. There is no doubt
that the Lord will win; He is victor, will be victor and will forever be victorious.
APPLICATION
This angel is enormous, being both on land and sea; covering all the earth.
Because the book is open forever it means that any member of the human race who wishes to participate with the Lord
can do so. The offer of salvation will remain open until the very end.
With one foot on the earth and the other on the sea he is seen claiming both for the Lord Jesus Christ.
Even though he will claim this at this time leading up to the Second Advent, there is a portion of the earth which is the
Lord’s at all times since the Cross; the believers. 1 Peter 2:9-10.
As seen in Psalm 2, the fallen world challenges the right of Christ to be truly King of the universe.
However, it is His by right of creation and since the Cross by right of redemption also. Colossians 1:16-20.
10:3 And cried with a loud voice, as when a lion roareth: and when he had cried, seven thunders uttered their
voices. 10:4 And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice
from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The angel’s voice is extremely powerful, as powerful as a lion roaring. The roar of a Lion is the voice of God. Joel 3:16;
Amos 3:8; Hosea 11:10. Thunders are a reference to angels with very powerful voices - John 12:29, Psalm 29:3,4.
John was allowed to understand it but was instructed to omit it from the Word of God. cf Deuteronomy 29:29 with
Revelation 22:10. This is a reminder that only a certain amount of what John Saw he was allowed to write for us, for the
enemy is to be kept in the dark about some (even many) details. Believers will be safe if they have been obedient and
fled to the wild places, and the Lord doesn’t want to give any information in Revelation that will assist Satan’s forces.
APPLICATION
The angel in a loud voice claims the world for the Lord. The Lord remains King, and the usurping “prince of this world”
will be stripped of everything he once had, even life itself. The power of the elect angel is seen here. With God nothing is
impossible and all that is decreed will occur.
This shows that everything that God reveals is not included in the written Scripture. What we “need to know” is revealed,
but not what would be useful to the enemy. Remember Satan is not omniscient. He must read the scriptures to learn
about the future, for he doesn’t see it clearly any other way. Paul was faced with this situation when he went to heaven
having been stoned to death and was told not to repeat what he had seen. 2 Corinthians 12:2-4.
Everything we will ever need to lead a complete Christian life however is in the Scripture. We must beware lest like the
men of Bethshemesh, we attempt to look into things God has hidden from us 1 Samuel 6:19.
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10:5 And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, 10:6 And
sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth,
and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no
longer:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the angel salutes the Lord Jesus Christ acknowledging Him as Lord of All. There were a number of salutes in the
ancient world with one being the clenched fist over the chest. The more modern salute evolved from the raising of the
visors of helmets used for warfare, but this salute is the ancient one across the chest.
Saluting the statues of the gods was also a tradition in the Greek culture of the day. After his formal salute, the angel
makes a solemn oath on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ who lives forever. 1 John 5:11,12. Time is running out for
unsaved mankind to repent. Time itself will end one day. Revelation 21-22.
“Created” refers to the Lord Jesus Christ who is the creator of the universe and all that is in it. Colossians 1:16, Hebrews
1:10. “That” introduces a purpose clause that the time of the Jewish age has now finished. “Chronos ouk stesti eti”, that
is the time of the mysteries of God should be finished. There is to be no further delay or waiting for finalising God’s
covenanted purposes. The history of man before the Lord’s return has run its course and the final acts are now begun.
TIME
APPLICATION
The angel acknowledges the Lord Jesus Christ as the King of kings and Lord of all lords.
Here John alludes to the angel in Daniel 12:7 who lifted his hand to heaven and said there would be only three and a half
years left.
This Space-Time Universe will continue until eternity at the end of the Millennium, but time has run out for these evil
people who are about to be finally judged.
We do not know how much time we have before we are called to account. We need to buy up/redeem the time.
In the seventh trumpet, Revelation 11:15-19, we have the second coming of Christ and the completion of the Plan of God
is anticipated.
The time will come when those who mock God's longsuffering 2 Peter 3:1-9 will have no more chance for salvation. cf
Isaiah 10:23 and Romans 9:28.
10:7 But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should
be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The good news “eggelizo” is that the Kingdom of God will be set up and will wait no longer. The mystery of God indicates
another area of the Plan of God which will now be clarified for man.
MYSTERY OF GOD
APPLICATION
God tells us and warns us repeatedly, that we need to recognise the signs of the times, and then speedily act upon the
instructions he gives for each Age of history and its time frame.
All the Old Testament prophecies come to a head in the “Day of the Lord”. The “Mystery of God” is this day; it is the end
of the Jewish Age - Zechariah 14, Isaiah 63.
Some of the Mysteries recorded in scripture are as follows:1..
The mystery of Godliness 1 Timothy 3:16. The mystery of godliness is God manifest in the flesh in Jesus Christ.
Though intimated in Old Testament Scripture Isaiah 7:14, 9:1-7, this was fully seen in the incarnation of Christ
John 1:1-14.
2..
Mystery of Israel's blindness Romans 11:25. Here the truth is revealed that Israel would be set aside in unbelief
until the fullness of the Gentiles should be saved.
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3.
Mystery of the Church Ephesians 3:3-6. The truth here is that in Christ there is no distinction between Jew and
Gentile, male or female, but all are made one by the baptism of the Holy Spirit as declared in 1 Corinthians
12:13.
4.
Mystery of the Rapture 1 Corinthians 15:51-52. The rapture of the bride of Christ, as seen in 1 Thessalonians
4:13-18, is the next stage in the fulfilment of God's plan. In this we share the destiny of Christ as seen in
Revelation 12:5 where "caught up" is the same word.
5.
Mystery of iniquity 2 Thessalonians 2:7. After the removal of the Church 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 the man of sin,
son of destruction, is revealed. In essence this is Satan manifest in the flesh, the opposite of the mystery of
godliness.
6.
Mystery Babylon Revelation 17:3-5. This refers to the religious system under Antichrist, a one-world religion
7.
Mystery of God Revelation 10:7. The conclusion of God's plan is brought about by the return of Jesus Christ
and the destruction of unbelievers. This is dealt with in detail in Revelation 14 and 19.
10:8 And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go and take the little book which
is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
John is asked to take the book by the Lord, and the angel gives it to him.
The huge size of the angel could have made this instruction a daunting prospect. John steps out in faith, without fear.
APPLICATION
We must be sensitive to guidance from the Lord as to opportunities that cross our paths even if they appear to be a real
challenge. In the expression of biblical faith there is no place for fear.
10:9 And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat
it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Eating the word occurred to three different writers of Scripture :-Jeremiah, Ezekiel [twice] and John. Look at Ezekiel 3:127. It speaks powerfully of the need to fully ingest the words of God and make them a part of every cell of our body. It
also reminds us that some things are sweet to taste and then hard to digest. Not all the things of God are pleasant, and
some of the most important lessons of ministry are lessons that can only be learned in suffering and pain.
APPLICATION
There is sweetness in the Word of God. Psalm 19:10, 119:103. There are “hard things”. 2 Peter 3:14-16.
That the angel is not Jesus Christ is shown by the fact that John did not fall flat on his face when he received the book.
In Revelation 5 Jesus Christ takes the book from the hand of the Father, here John takes the unsealed book from the
hand of the angel. Both incidents lead to action. All the words of scripture are meant to work out in the believers life into
dynamic action for the Lord who gave the to us to use.
Eating the book is indicative of taking in the Word of God, believing it, and applying it into the fabric of every day life.
Eating the bread at the communion table is a demonstration of one’s faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; hopefully a picture of
your daily fellowship with the Lord through study/application of the Word.
Here we see the free will of John in asking for the book. You must passionately seriously want to know the deep things of
God if you are to grow in the Christian life. Real effort and focused attention is called for. Satan distracts us from this.
10:10 And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey:
and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
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He ate the book and his stomach ached. At times the things of God will cause inner pain as we assimilate what they
mean. Suffering must often be “sat with” for a time until its lessons are internalized and can be used to help others.
Eating is a Hebrew idiom for receiving knowledge just as we use the phrase “I will chew it over” or “digesting what we
have learnt”. Let us question ourselves as to how ready we are to “chew over” the things of God.
APPLICATION
Prophecy is often interesting and sweet for the believer, but the judgments that fall on the unbelievers should challenge
us to evangelise the unsaved, giving us great sadness and pain in our soul as we contemplate their fate.
There is no adversity or catastrophe which is too great for the Christian - 1 Corinthians 10:13.
The believer cannot serve the Lord apart from learning the Scriptures, believing the scriptures, and applying the
scriptures into the fabric of daily life. Hebrews 3:17 – 4:6, James 2:14-26.
By eating the book John makes the Word part of his ministry. The Word is our food for ministry.
Once John has eaten the book he is given a new commission. Only obedience to what is already revealed opens the
door to the next task the Lord has for us.
We need to take opportunities given by God if we are going to progress in our Christian walk.
10:11 And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and
kings.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Note that in Revelation 9:11 we have two words for languages, specifically the Hebrew and Greek language here. We
have a third glossa which again is also a known language, which is understood by the group of people that are separated
from the other people linguistically. In this verse we also have separation politically, nations and ethnically peoples.
APPLICATION
There will still be nations and linguistic separation after the Second Advent of the Lord despite the satanic attempt to
form a homogenous international world wide brotherhood of man; a return to the Tower of Babel. God’s Plan calls for us
to celebrate our difference in spiritual union with Him, not form a fake political unity. The Holy Spirit will always bind us
into unity with all fellow spirit filled believers anyway, whatever their “denomination”, cultural/linguistic differences.
CONCLUSION
When we take the Word into us, we come under great responsibility. First we are to be conformed to Christ as revealed
in His Word, and secondly we are responsible for sharing to truth with all we are confronted with.
This process of spiritual growth, or sanctification, is likened to the "pruning" of John 15:1-2, and to refining "fire" in 1
Peter 1:5-9. This path cannot be travelled without much pain and sorrow. So many claim to seek conformity to Christ
without the wisdom of Paul. He knew that this meant sharing the "fellowship of His sufferings". Philippians 3:10.
Peter tells us that this is the normal course of the Christian life. 1 Peter 4:12-13. The only way we can deal with the bitter
things of life is to keep on feeding on the sweetness of the Word and applying it into the fabric of our daily life.
Another aspect of this bitterness is that the more one is conformed to Christ, the more that person will be hated by this
world. In Matthew 5 Christ begins with "blessed", but notes that this naturally leads to persecution. This same lesson is
taught in John 15:18-27.
There is also a certain bitterness known by those who have a burden for the lost and who see them reject the offer of
salvation. To share the Gospel message as the Lord desires is to feel the fires of hell under the hearer and feel
compassion for them, even as you feel their hatred and rejection.
For those faithful to continue in study and spiritual growth, all the sorrow and grief of the refining of faith is worthwhile for
"the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus." Not just the knowing of Him as Saviour, but the deep and abiding
moment-by-moment fellowship of life. For this Paul declared he gladly "suffered the loss of all things, and count them but
dung in order that I may gain Christ''. Philippians 3:8.
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CHAPTER ELEVEN
INTRODUCTION
Throughout history the purpose of God is to reconcile men to Himself. He has made this possible by the sacrifice of
Jesus Christ on the Cross. (2 Corinthians. 5:19-21). God’s desires for mankind are made very clear regarding this in
Isaiah 28:21, Ezekiel 18:4-24, 33:11, 2 Peter 3:9, 1 John 2:1-2.
In this chapter we see that even In the great Tribulation God does not leave Himself without witnesses, nor are the
unsaved left without numerous opportunities for salvation.
There are four waves of witnesses in this book which are as follows:
1.
The 144,000 Jewish evangelists (Rev. 7:1-8)
2.
The converts of the 144,000 (Rev. 7:9-17)
3.
The two special witnesses in Jerusalem (Rev. 11:1-6)
4.
Angelic evangelism (Rev. 14:6-7)
THE MEASURING OF THE TRIBULATIONAL TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM
11:1 And there was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the temple
of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word “didomi” implies the gift of grace. The passive voice reminds us that grace must be received by the exercise of
free will. A reed like unto a rod is a surveyors instrument, a measuring rod. He is to measure the “temple of God”. This
is a reminder to us that the site of Solomon’s Temple is forever the site of the “temple of God”, but presently in our own
day, and in the Tribulation, it is “trampled by Gentiles” through the unbelief of Israel. This site remains however holy, but
during the Tribulation period it will be an active site of worship for all peoples, but the worship there will be false.
The temple is rebuilt by unbelievers in Jerusalem at some point before the Great Tribulation begins as a part of a revival
in Judaism. They that worship refers to the Jewish unbelievers of the Tribulation. The word worship is in the present
active participle which shows that they are constantly worshipping. Religion is very powerful in the tribulation period, for
Satan is the author of all religion! He starts by supporting the existing religions in unity, but then moves to the sole
worship of himself. This religion of the perfection of man will be serious and dramatic worship of self centeredness!
The word to measure is “metreo” from which we get the word metre. The measuring of the Temple was a way of
indicating the magnificence of God. - Psalm 48:12-13, Ezekiel 40:3- 42:20, Zechariah 2:1-5. Here the building is
magnificent, but the things happening here are not.
Often in the New Testament the temple speaks of the believer in Jesus Christ 2 Corinthians. 3:17, 6:18; 1 Peter 2:5 In
Revelation 13:6 the temple is defined as "those who dwell in heaven." This measuring however indicates a real building
that has a real purpose and will be cleansed and replaced by the Lord’s Millennial Temple that is already ready in heaven
to be transported to earth for that day.
The Gentile Court was excluded in the measurement of the temple of Israel:
There were four courts in the Temple
1.
The Gentile Court, which was also called the outer court, this was separated from the Jews by a "wall of
partition" (Ephesians. 2:14) and was used by proselytes to Judaism.
2.
The Court of Women.
3.
The Court of The Israelites (Men).
4.
The Court of The Priests.
John is commanded to leave the court of the Gentiles out of the measuring.
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During this tribulation time the statue of the Antichrist will be set up in the Holy of Holies of this temple; it is called “the
abomination of desolations”. This is the point when he moves to eliminate all other religions replacing them with his own.
It is the “switch-throwing point” for many, who then see that the hated departed Christians were right, and they embrace
Yeshua/Jesus/Isa as their Only Saviour at that point.
APPLICATION
The "reed like a rod" is a fit picture of Jesus Christ who came in humility and meekness; Isaiah. 42:2-3, yet when He
returns he shall rule the nations with a rod of iron. Psalm 2:9; Revelation 2:27. This rod represents Christ as God's
standard of measure. The temple in Jerusalem in those days will be a touch-stone of truth for all peoples; some will
accept the one of whom the temple truly speaks, Jesus, but others will join the false prophet and the Anti-Christ in false
worship there.
The command to measure the temple shows in the active voice the necessity of responding to grace. By comparing
Zechariah 2:1-13 and especially verse 5 with this passage we see the measuring to be a sign of security, so the
measuring here is like the sealing in Revelation 7:3 in that it shows the security of grace to those who have accepted
God’s grace. The measuring is also a sign that the Temple itself will be replaced with a better one. Like Belshazzar it is
measured and found wanting. Daniel 5:25ff.
This verse shows that there is a rebuilt temple in existence during the Tribulation period, thus the commencement or
agreement for such a building to be commenced would be another step on the road to the Second Advent.
The altar speaks of the death of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross. The Altar is a reminder of forgiveness. Without the
forgiveness of the cross there would be no salvation. By application, the measuring of the temple is to show that God
surrounds the tribulation believers from the coming judgments by that "wall of fire."
People who have evidences before them of the reality of the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, but do not
understand them, can be led astray by the demonic miraculous signs and wonders. However, because of the security of
God's grace and the completed work of Christ pictured in the temple and altar, there remains a remnant of true
worshippers of God.
The Jews rebuild the Temple so that they again can have a national religious symbol and recommence Judaism fully for
the first time in over 1900 years, but it is perverted quickly by the False Prophet and the Anti-Christ. It operates long
enough however for many to be saved, and they obey the Lord and are delivered in the end. Zechariah 12:10ff. During
the Church Age God is bringing in the fullness of the Gentiles (Romans 11:25) and the church is mainly Gentile. In the
Tribulation Gentiles will still be saved, but God's primary dealing is with the restoration and regeneration of Israel.
11:2 But the court which is without the temple leave out, and measure it not; for it is given unto the Gentiles:
and the holy city shall they tread under foot forty and two months.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The sanctuary had been trodden down before. Isaiah 63:18. The site of the Temple of Solomon is probably to the north
of the site of the Dome of the Rock mosque. Recent investigations have indicated that the Temple proper could be built
without demolishing that structure but that the Dome would be in the court of the Gentiles which surrounded the Temple.
The Dome of the Rock mosque commemorates the place where Mohammed is said to have ascended into heaven and
is therefore the third most sacred place in the world for Islam. This also marks the spot where Abraham offered Isaac on
Mt Moriah.
The wailing wall is an exposed section of the original western wall of the entire Temple Platform area as rebuilt by Herod
the Great. In 1948 the Jewish area of Jerusalem was destroyed and Jews were forbidden to live in the city for the next 19
years until Israel took the city in the 1967 war. The Western Wall has become the holiest Synagogue of the Jewish
World.
We should note that “tread under foot” is in the future, active, indicative, showing that this was future from AD 96 and it is
real. The Second Advent ends the “treading of Gentile unbelievers” upon the holy hills of Jerusalem.
APPLICATION
The temple had been non existent for twenty five years at the time of writing of Revelation, having been destroyed in 70
AD, thus this was not the Temple which the Romans razed to the ground to which John referred. Revelation and the
prophecies related to the Second Coming of Christ were therefore not fulfilled in the first century as many who refuse the
futurist view of this book claim.
Part of the treaty between the Jews and the Antichrist may well be the rebuilding of the Temple and the reinstatement of
the animal sacrifices, which after three and a half years the Antichrist will stop in favour of his own statue being
worshipped. The temple may however be rebuilt well before the tribulation begins as a result of events in Ezekiel 38-39.
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God is aware of all that is going on and will limit it to His plan. The Rampage of Gentile Powers:- One of the reasons for
not measuring the outer court is given. It has been granted to the nations to tread Jerusalem under foot since 70 AD.
Luke 21:24. The "times of the Gentiles" however actually began with Nebuchadnezzar's victory over Jerusalem in 606
BC, and will continue to the second advent of Christ. Thus God's permissive will allows the trampling of the Jewish
people at this time and right up until the Lord’s return. In the midst of the “trampling” God will protect all his own within
Israel, and Zechariah records over one third of the nation are saved and welcome the Lord’s return. Study the EBCWA
Commentary on Zechariah and the book “Rediscovering the faith of their Fathers - The Arabs in The Last Days”.
THE TWO WITNESSES [VERSES 3 – 13]
11:3 And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and
threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have the two witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ. In chapter 13 we had the two witnesses of the Devil.
These witnesses operate from Jerusalem whilst the 144,000 Jewish evangelists are world wide.
Sackcloth was the normal apparel for repentance, sack cloth and ashes. It was also the dress of prophets of Israel.
These witnesses are described as being set up/clothed for ministry in the “perfect tense”, with a result that they continue
to be clothed in sackcloth. They have a stable and dynamic ministry that is truly biblically prophetic and powerful.
Two witnesses was the minimum required under Old Testament law - Deuteronomy 17:6, 19:15
Elijah had the spiritual gift of calling down fire from heaven 1 King 18:38, 2 Kings 1:10,12. These two men will stand like
Elijah and Elisha as witnesses against apostasy and idolatry, just as all the older prophets had done. The same sins that
plagued Israel from 900 – 586 BC will plague the nation during the years leading up to and during the tribulation period.
Elijah also stopped it raining for three and a half years in accordance with God’s will. 1 Kings 17:1, 18:41.
Turning water into blood clearly speaks of Moses - Exodus 7:14-25.
The Jews were expecting a new prophet like Moses, Deuteronomy 18:15-18, and the return of Elijah. Malachi 4:5.
The word translated "authority'' here is “exousia” and speaks of unhindered power of a ruler.
This is delegated authority given from God.
The definite article here speaks of two specific individuals who are seen as God's possession; they are most likely the
supernaturally returned Moses and Elijah. They then visually and orally stand for both Law and Prophets; God’s whole
revelation to Israel, but both also having the prophetic gift and role. They are still expected by godly Israelis today.
HERALDS
APPLICATION
The two witnesses will preach for three and a half years before they are murdered/martyred and then raised again.
Their clothing talks about their wailing over the sins of God’s people Israel - Joel 1:13, Jonah 3:6.
They will teach the true meaning of the temple and that the Antichrist is who he truly is, a satanic fake.
These witnesses prophesied or preached daily and not just on Sundays. We need to take in the Word of God on a daily
basis and must be ready to serve the Lord without being “clock watchers”.
There will be a great battle ground between world religion and the truth at Jerusalem, with the Antichrist attempting to
make Jerusalem the centre of world religion, and this effort being countered by the two witnesses. God protects his own
and they do not die one second before they are due to die. Psalms 68:19-20, 116:15, Jeremiah 15:1, 24:4-7.
We as believers all have this authority to proclaim the gospel. Matthew 28:19-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21.
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11:4 These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The olive trees were Zerubbabel, who was in the kingly line in the return to the land after the Babylonian captivity, and
Joshua the High Priest, who was the spiritual leader of Israel and in the Hebrew are called the “sons of oil”. Zechariah
3:14-15.
Here however we have Moses and Elijah as the two witnesses after the Rapture of the Church.
Moses and Elijah do not stand on their past success. They do not give their testimony but point to the Messiah. It may
be that they are the means of conversion of the 144,000 witnesses, and of many others through this period. We are not
told these details as it would give Satan too much information that his Anti-Christ could use. Beware of those who claim
they know too much at this point of the details, for they will be revealed through the Holy Spirit individually only when
they are needed, and when the Anti-Christ or his forces cannot know them and use them against believers.
APPLICATION
This shows that you cannot serve the Lord unless you are filled with the Holy Spirit. The Lord always provides Holy Spirit
filled spokesmen for His cause.
We like them should not rely on our past successes but live one day at a time controlled/filled by the Holy Spirit.
One of the traps of old age is that people tend to live in the past. We should live our life right the way up to the end,
always focused forward to the next days service. A great old saint in new Zealand died at an advanced age. He had
been the Head of the Bible College of New Zealand for many years and in over 25 years of “retirement”, had preached
tirelessly throughout the country. He died one morning putting his shoes on, ready to head out again to do the Lord’s
work that day. He had a full appointment book for the next week. This was an inspiring picture for us all, and sets the
standard for us for true forward focused living in Christ Jesus. There is no retirement, just different service until we go to
meet our Lord.
The Law and The Prophets
1.
Jesus came to fulfil the Law and Prophets. Matthew 5:17.
2.
God's plan for Israel is revealed in the Law and Prophets. Matthew 7:12, 11:13, 22:40.
3.
The Law and Prophets were to reveal Christ to Israel. Luke 24:27, 44.
4.
Moses and Elijah met Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration Matthew 17:3; Mark. 9:4 as representatives of the
Law and Prophets
5.
Both are to come again. Deuteronomy. 18:15; Malachi 4:5-6
11:5 And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any
man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the people who attack the two witnesses are killed by fire. “Will hurt” means to desire to hurt them.
In this verse there are two “ifs”. “If any man will hurt” - first class condition, which means that many will want to hurt
them. This is the voice of reality; many will try to hurt them, but none will succeed in doing so, for they are under the
Lord’s special protection. There is intense hatred from the world to those teaching the truth. The word to hurt is in the
aorist active indicative which means that at every point of time they see them they have a desire to kill them, but they are
unable to do so, and any who try are immediately incinerated.
“IF”
Definition:- The Greek conditional clause which is translated “if” states a supposition and is classified on the
basis of the condition it expresses.
There are four conditional clauses (a)
(b)
Type 1 If and it is assumed to be true (Matthew 4:3, 6)
Type 2 The viewpoint of unreality - if you will but you will not. (Matthew 4:9)
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(c)
(d)
Type 3 a matter of free will “if”, maybe you will or maybe you will not. 1 John 1:9)
Type 4 I wish it were true but it isn't (1 Peter 3:1 4)
APPLICATION
If we teach the truth there will be active opposition against us. We are to ignore all opposition and critical comment, for
we answer to the Lord and not to men. Ezekiel 2:2-8, 3:4-11.
The Lord will protect us from our enemies unless it is His wish for us to return home by means of martyrdom so that we
win the “Crown of Life” on the way into heaven.
11:6 These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over
waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
They also have authority to cause droughts by withholding the rain and cause other plagues which afflicted Egypt at the
timer of the Exodus.
The power which Moses and Elijah had in Old Testament times is used again here in the Tribulation. To all who know
scripture amongst the Jewish people there will be a realisation that God has indeed visited his people. Revival of interest
in the Old Testament will occur as a result of these men’s ministry and many will be saved.
Elijah caused a drought which lasted three and a half years - James 5:17. These two will break the revelation drought for
Israel and the world and deliver God’s Word for all to hear, and do so in a dramatic manner daily for this time.
TWO WITNESSES
APPLICATION
God’s power is unchangeable and stable, and it is always used to fulfil the eternal plan. There is no doubt about the
success of the plan, nor any doubts about the final resurrection of the two messengers. The witnesses are not named in
this passage which shows that we should always look at the message and not the man.
God uses adverse and even “strange” situations to focus the mind of man on something he wishes mankind to consider.
THE DEATH OF THE TWO WITNESSES
11:7. “And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit
shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.”
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
In order to get the allegiance of the masses the Antichrist will move against the two witnesses and kill them. Prior to this
time he may have used their “right to preach their obnoxious message” as evidence of his tolerance, even while he
secretly kills believers in other places.
All this changes when the Antichrist comes back from the dead himself (by means of a resuscitation contrived by Satan)
and his first act after this is apparently to kill the two witnesses. God allows the two witnesses to be killed as their ministry
is complete according to God’s timetable, but this isn’t the end according to the plan. God has a surprise in store for the
Anti-Christ! Even though it is recorded here, he doesn't believe it! This is the satanic blindness that is at the core of the
satanic; these men do not want the truth, but prefer a lie, even if it is only for a time.
APPLICATION
Many men will give allegiance to those who from a human viewpoint have supernatural gifts. They reject the Lord and the
evidences for his miracles, but will accept the lesser miracles of Satan’s men. They make their choice, and they must
take their resultant fate; they have no excuses and they don’t seem to care until it is too late.
God’s timing is perfect and will not allow you to leave the earth until your mission is completed. The two witnesses are
relaxed about their death, for their work is done. Death is also not the end for any believer.
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However once your mission has been completed nothing will keep you here and the means of your death is in the Lord’s
hands and you can trust him to produce maximum glory in it. Psalms 68:20, 116:15, John 8:51.
11:8 And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt,
where also our Lord was crucified.
Analysis and Background
Jerusalem is the city which God calls “My City”. From the days of David and Solomon the Lord made it clear that this
city was to be the centre of the earth and the place where the temple of the Lord would stand. It will stand there through
the Millennial kingdom. The calling of the real city of Jerusalem “Sodom” and Egypt” is the reminder that when the term
“Babylon” is later used it also is used figuratively, and does not necessarily refer to the city on the Euphrates River.
It is a place which is close to the heart of the dispersed Jews as at the end of each Passover they say “next year in
Jerusalem”. Sadly sin and evil made the city anything but what the Lord intended it to be. Some of the Old Testament
prophets related Jerusalem or Israel to Sodom, such was their sin at the time. Isaiah 1:9,10, Jeremiah 23:14.
The word “Pneumatikos” (spiritually) is used only twice in the New Testament, the other time being in 1 Corinthians 2:14.
In both cases application from a spiritual rather than natural viewpoint is indicated. During the Tribulation period false
religion will make Jerusalem spiritually lower than it has ever been, and it will be destroyed, like all other cities of man by
the last earthquake described in Revelation. The good news is that the city will be rebuilt and the Millennial Temple will
arrive from heaven and be the wonder of the new world the Lord makes after the carnage of the Tribulation.
We notice that the word crucify is in the Aorist Passive Indicative which confirms the reality that crucifixion was received
at the cross by the Lord, and the results were real for mankind. By His work grace is offered and all may come to know
Him, receive the gift of salvation, and know life. John 10:10.
JERUSALEM
APPLICATION
Sodom refers to immorality in Jerusalem and Egypt to worldliness. The Tribulation period brings unsaved mankind to the
lowest ebb in human history and two thirds of the Jewish nation in the land falls into this, but one third find their Messiah
and come through in victory and purity. Zechariah 12:10ff.
The identity of the city is clear as Jerusalem, as this is where our Lord was crucified.
The two witnesses are therefore operating from Jerusalem, and they are part of the spiritual solution, whereas the Jewish
false prophet and the other stooges of the Anti-Christ in the land are the problem. Two thirds follow the evil one and his
stooges, but one third repent. In the worst of times there is hope, with higher numbers coming to Christ by percentage of
surviving population than today.
11:9 And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and
an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The statement that the whole world would see these bodies lying in the streets of Jerusalem was a cause of the higher
criticism of the last century as they ridiculed this statement as being totally impossible to fulfil literally. A literal view of this
scene demands that it is a distant event from John’s time and certainly could not have been fulfilled in the first century.
Today with the internet and instant television we can see this being literally fulfilled.
Refusing to bury the dead was the greatest insult that one could make on a deceased person in the ancient world and
was usually a mark of grave impiety as well. Isaiah 5:25. The three and a half days in Jerusalem would indicate that the
bodies were decomposing. According to Jewish tradition this period of three and a half days confirmed that they were
genuinely dead. Cf. Lazarus in John chapter 11.
APPLICATION
This indicates that world wide television/internet connection is available at the time of this event. All people everywhere
are tuned in to see the two dead bodies and we can see the Anti-Christ wanting all to see that these men are truly dead.
Let us be really and seriously reflective as we read these verses, for we are the first generation in this first decade of the
21st century who in all of the history of man has been able to see this fulfilled literally, with live telecast/internet streaming
being possible to all corners of the earth. Our College was established in 1991, the year the internet was fully launched
also, and it opens the door to the total and literal fulfilment of all these otherwise baffling prophecies.
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11:10 And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to
another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The inhabitants of the world celebrate by giving gifts to each other as the message given by Moses and Elijah is such
that they rejoice in their deaths. There is a world wide celebration of the deaths of these two witnesses, and it will the
first time for years the world has something to celebrate, given the volcanism and disasters. Anti-Christ sells this event
as a “turning point” in his battle against the “Christian God”.
It is of interest that they rejoice [active voice] and receive merriment [passive voice] because of the death of the prophets.
The giving of gifts indicated some celebration as was the case at the feast of Purim which celebrated the deliverance of
Israel from the Persian enemies. Esther 9:19-22. This blasphemous celebration by the unbelievers will be another
evidence for their condemnation when the Lord returns. To celebrate the death of good people is the ultimate evil and
shows a heart steeped in sin and evil. These people were “tormented” by the truth, and this is another telling
condemnation of their evil natures.
APPLICATION
When the pressure of conviction is eased off the unbelievers they become of an “easy mind” and exchange gifts. They
have a party. It is always a foolish thing to celebrate victory before it is won, and these people have failed to recall the
resurrection of the Lord Jesus, for that will be repeated before their eyes.
The gospel always torments the unbeliever when they reject it. It is the ministry of the Holy Spirit which torments
unbelievers. This torment is the Lord’s gracious appeal to repent; they feel the power of the message and their rejection
is against the forces of truth, and so their condemnation is secured.
Unbelievers prefer the gifts of men to the gift of God, and they are left with their gifts, and without the life they could have
had. Our deaths can often be more of a witness to others than our lives. Death is not the end for believers, for our
witness, our works and our words remain to convict unbelievers of their sins long after we have physically gone.
THE RESURRECTION OF MOSES AND ELIJAH
11:11 And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their
feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
After three and a half days the two witnesses will be resurrected and taken to heaven in the clear sight of the “live feeds”.
He has the same problem he faced in the Garden on Easter morning, with his tomb guards paralyzed with fear when the
Lord raised himself from the dead. Matthew 28:1-5. In this second case Satan cannot organize any lies, for his live
streaming of the bodies ensures all the world sees the power of God and the powerlessness of the Anti-Christ. How
many are led to real faith by this miracle?
This causes fear to those who observe their ascension through the live feed via internet or television. The very tool the
Anti-Christ has used to push his message (instant television of events) becomes the tool that the truth of God’s power
turns against him. All the world sees the resurrection of the two witnesses and so the common objection to the fact of
Jesus resurrection is met; all men see this one happening live!
The spirit of life came from God, and God raised them, just as He had originally brought life to men in Genesis 2:7. Refer
also, Ezekiel 37 cf John 20:22. This becomes the ultimate evidence for Christ, and against Anti-Christ. Those who
persist in worshipping the Anti-Christ from this point are beyond all hope of redemption, for they truly behave like Satan.
APPLICATION
When we die today we are absent from the body and face to face with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8.
God provides new life into the bodies of the witnesses, He is the source of life and resurrecting the dead is not a
problem, no matter what the state of the matter that was the body. Remember God is behind the equation E+MC2, and
all he other equations that make up space and time, and beyond!
He will also provide us with resurrection bodies that will never deteriorate. 1 Corinthians 15:51-57.
The prophets "torment" men by reminding them of the consequences of rejecting Christ and of their appointment with
death and Judgment. Hebrews 9:27. The world is tortured when forced to see truth, and they see graphically that the
truth of the witnesses words are reinforced by the evidence of Jesus resurrection by means of their own.
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All of Satan's "victories" are temporary. The cross defeated him once for all. This resurrection of Moses and Elijah will
display the power of God over Death to the whole world, just as the Empty Tomb did to the early disciples.
Their “laughter is turned to mourning” when the ''spirit of life" revives the Prophets and their celebrating will stop. Even
so James points out that the cause of our frivolous laughter often becomes the source of mourning and weeping as we
come into real adjustment with the justice of God. James 4:7-10.
Even at this point of realisation, the people of the earth have instantly, full and powerful evidence of the truth of all that
the witnesses have said beforehand. They ought to repent immediately, and apparently many do so. Those people who
refuse to repent deserve no pity, and they truly have no excuses. Like Satan and his demons, they cling to irrationality,
hating God, rather than accepting faith.
11:12 And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to
heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
God speaks and says “come up here” and they ascend in a cloud just as Jesus had done from the Mount of Olives (Acts
1). The television cameras still roll and none stop them, for the Lord ensures all mankind sees and hears this event.
Two times the verb anabaino which means ascend is used in this verse. The first is in the imperative mood, they are
commanded to do so, the second is in the indicative mood they do in fact ascend.
Hither is the word “hode” which means “this place”, in this case it is into a real heaven. The fact that the people see the
witnesses disappearing into heaven means that the dimension where heaven exists is able to open into our dimension of
existence. The concept of “parallel universes” is something only spoken of in the last decades, and yet John sees this
event here as it will occur in the Tribulation. He reminds us that heaven is as close as our breath, and that we are a
breath away from our end here!
“Theoreo” means that they saw this happen and thought about it. All mankind is able to reflect upon the significance of
what they have seen. There is no excuse for ignoring such evidence of heaven’s existence and the reality of the
superiority of God over the Anti-Christ.
APPLICATION
Some say that this is the mid tribulation rapture of the church but clearly it deals with the two witnesses and not the
Church. There is no need to make any of this figuratively, for we now speak of the concept of a parallel universe existing
alongside our own with portals from one to the other.
C S Lewis was the first to make this physics understandable with his Narnia Chronicles. These prophets are two real
men, and this is a real event, and a startling rebuke to unbelief upon the earth, and it is to be followed by another
reminder that the Lord made and can unmake the earth. It is also a reminder that judgment only comes after great grace
has been rejected thoroughly.
11:13 And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake
were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Another great super earthquake occurs in Jerusalem and a tenth part of the city will be destroyed and 7000 be killed.
With current building standards this quake must be magnitude 8 or more, as all Jerusalem’s new buildings are built to
withstand magnitude 7 quakes.
It is of interest that the Mount of Olives has a major east-west fault, and eventually at the Second Advent of Christ it will
split in half to allow the Mediterranean Sea to join up with the Dead Sea so that Jerusalem becomes a port city, but
before that will open up an escape path for the armies resisting Anti-Christ’s forces. The entire topography of the land is
changed by the last great earthquakes as the Lord returns (below).
The land must in places uplift and in places sink well over 1000 feet to achieve this. The Jordan River runs down the
greatest fault line on the earth, the Great Rift Valley. There is the most major contortion of the earth since Noah’s Flood
in these last weeks of the Tribulation period before the Lord’s return. The very chaos of nature at that time protects the
believers world wide by distracting Satan’s forces from their murderous intent.
The people are afraid of what they see but this does not cause them all to repent and accept Christ as Saviour. cf
Revelation 6:14-17. Many of them do give the true God the glory and recognize that he is indeed the Lord and God of
all, but only time will tell whether this is saving faith for them, or just acceptance of the truth about God. James 2:19-20.
Note James message carefully, for saving faith requires more than simply ticking the box of belief, it is obedience to the
Lord shown by action that proves the faith is real and above that of the demons! Remember, the devils believe God
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exists – they really know it truly – but they simply tremble and continue to work their evils. It is the fruit of belief that
proves the source and nature of the faith! James 2:14-26.
HEATHENISM
APPLICATION
The remnant in Jerusalem are impressed by this act of God and gave him glory. It appears that of those in Jerusalem
there were conversions at this time, and these new converts join the others in the city who are opposing the Anti-Christ
by now, and they stand and fight.
You cannot scare people or love people into the Kingdom of God. It is always a work of the Holy Spirit upon the truth of
God’s Word and work. Our duty is to communicate the word of God accurately to people so that they can make a
decision based on the working of the Holy Spirit in their life.
The unbelievers of this time are truly people who are without excuse - Romans 1:18-32. Those who reject this last
amazing evidence and persist in their paganism have not long to worship the Devil, for the next woe is about to break
upon them.
THE THIRD WOE
11:14 The second woe is past; and, behold, the third woe cometh quickly. 11:15 And the seventh angel
sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms
of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The third woe is referred to as the “Baptism of Fire”, which is a reference to the judgment at the Second Advent. Matthew
3: 11,12, 13:40-50. Having rejected identification with Jesus in his death and resurrection, the unsaved have walked
away from eternal life and blessing. They have identified themselves with evil and persisted in this choice against all
evidence that they are wrong. They have therefore selected identification with Satan, and that is identification with his
fate; the Lake of Fire. This woe is amplified in Revelation 14:14-20, 19:11-21.
The seventh trumpet is the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ. The seventh trumpet contains the bowl judgment in
a similar way to the seventh seal containing the seven trumpet judgments.
The trumpets were always blown on the accession of an Israelite king - 1 Kings 1:34. “Are become” - ginomai - have
become something that they were not before. The kingdoms of this world have been in Satan’s pocket since man fell,
with few exceptions God’s men have not ruled upon the earth. When Satan offered the kingdoms of the world of that day
to the Lord in Matthew 4, the offer was bone fide; Satan did control them. Note it is the Aorist, active, indicative of
ginomai, which refers to a point in time, the Second Advent, when God effects the change. The indicative mood reminds
us of the physical reality of this event; world history is over for evil men and women when the Lord returns.
“He shall reign” is a future of logical progression in that logically from His Second Advent the Lord Jesus Christ will reign
from that time on. The Lord Jesus Christ will destroy all opposition on his return and establish his kingdom in
righteousness.
KINGDOM
APPLICATION
In the Church age we are all special agents of the Lord to tell of not only the gospel, but also of the judgment certainly to
come if the grace gift of salvation is not accepted from God.
The Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ is a fulfilment of the disciples prayer, “Thy Kingdom Come”. The Lord will
inherit the one world kingdom from the Antichrist, but all that Anti-Christ has built will have been levelled by the great
earthquake that ends man’s pathetic attempt to rule this earth without reference to God. Everything is wiped away that is
associated with evil and sin by the time of Christ’s return.
The seventh trumpet is the last of a series of seven, but not the absolute last. It is not to be confused with the last trump
of 1 Corinthians 15:52. Logically the trumpet of Matthew 24:31 must follow the seventh trumpet of the Revelation as it
occurs after the Tribulation at the open manifestation of Christ’s Second Advent of Matthew 24:30 which is a parallel
passage in Revelation 19:11-17. The sounding of the seventh trumpet does not mark the Rapture of the Church but
marks the coming of Israel’s rightful King the Lord Jesus Christ.
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The Millennium is the greatest demonstration in history that regeneration, not perfect environment is the solution of
man’s problem. The phrase, “he shall reign”, shows that the Lord Jesus Christ will walk on the earth and take over
immediately and rule from the first moment of his touch down on the transformed Mt of Olives.
The Lord will walk into chaos and bring order out of chaos, because that is what he does, and for all of us we rejoice, for
he has done this within our lives. The world wide, dispersed, but believing survivors will be used in this clean up, but the
Lord will do the creative work to bring order from the toxic, volcanic, and nuclear carnage.
11:16 And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped
God, 11:17 Saying, We give thee thanks, O LORD God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because
thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The verb translated “sat” is in the present tense, showing that the twenty four elders always sat before God. This was a
high mark of distinction in the ancient world, for all elders, and even princes always stood before the king. The king
alone sat at this time. It is a sign of the great dignity that our union with Christ has produced for us. It is a reminder that
we are recipients of greater grace than we can imagine now.
Many manuscripts omit the phrase “and art to come”, as the expected one has already come. God takes to Him the
power that belongs to Him and rules. The angels are thankful that this has come to a conclusion. The elect angels have
always cheered from the sidelines every victory in the Angelic Conflict, and now their joy is total, for their rebellious
demonic fellow angelic creatures are fully and finally judged and eliminated form the earth permanently. The victory of
the Cross is now expressed in physical form with the ruling of the Lord Jesus over all the creation in person.
Taken “lambano” is in the perfect tense, which means that He has taken it in the past with results that go on forever, and
it shows the permanency of His reign. From this point on the Lord rules in the space-time universe for the next 1000
years personally, and then when the new heavens and earth are created he rules forever there.
APPLICATION
The twenty four elders worship Him with fervour at this point because the Second Advent and Millennium are about to
commence. All that man has waited for since the days of Adam are about to begin. In all of human history up to the
second coming of Christ, God has never asserted His power to reign on the earth. It is the end of fallen human history.
At this point the angelic conflict is resolved for good, and He takes power. Satan’s last rebellion on the earth at the end
of the Millennium is not a serious one for God, but Satan is simply used to sift mankind for the last time, so that any
human beings who do not want to enter eternity with the Lord have the opportunity to step into Fire rather than step into
the New Universe. Revelation 20:7-10.
The Lord did not use His divine power in the First Advent, except under very controlled conditions in the miracles,
(Doctrine of Kenosis) but he most certainly will at the Second Advent. This verse recognises the eternality of Christ. The
perfect tense of the verb for “taken” recognises the permanence of the reign of Christ.
11:18 And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged,
and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy
name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Between verses 17 and 18 we have the Millennium, which will be described briefly in Revelation 20, but is covered very
fully in many Old Testament passages. It was the hope and expectation of the Old Testament saints.
Here is also seen a foretaste of the reality of the judgement of the dead, the unbelievers, at the end of the Millennium. It
will be more fully mentioned and explained in Revelation 20:11-15.
The raging of the nations, which is their satanically inspired revolt, is a pathetic thing, but man must be allowed to rail
against the truth, and express his free will. This negative emotion of determinedly evil men, and finally God’s rule over
the earth, inspite of their screams, echoes the content of Psalm 2.
The Jews always understood that the righteous were rewarded at the end of the age, and that the evil ones will receive
the full payment for their persistence in such terrible decision making. The word “that” introduces a purpose clause, “in
order that they should be judged”.
In contrast to those being judged we have the other groups, firstly the general category, “Those that fear thy name”, who
are believers. The second group is the specific leaders and encouragers of righteousness of the past; “thy Servants the
prophets”, which refers to Old Testament servants and pastors of the truth.
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CONTRASTS IN THE FIRST AND SECOND RESURRECTIONS
APPLICATION
The Seventh trumpet emphasised judgment at the Second Advent, whereas this verse deals with both judgment and the
giving of rewards at the end of the Millennium. There is the constant reminder that mankind selects only one of two
paths to walk through time and into eternity.
All believers will receive rewards with those of the Millennium, and those who survived the Tribulation receiving rewards
and their resurrection body at the end of the Millennium. Whilst the Old Testament saints receive their resurrection body
at the Second Advent it would appear that they do not receive their rewards until the last of their dispensation receives
their resurrection bodies at the end of the Millennium.
The “time of the dead” is the Second Resurrection at the end of the Millennium, or the Great White Throne Judgement of
all unbelievers. The unregenerate response to perfect environment is rage. Evil cannot stand goodness, which is why
the Lord sifts them and eliminates them from the earth’s blessed time, for they would find it torment. They would rather
have hell than life with God, and so that is exactly what they get. We must learn and understand the hatred of
unbelievers for God and ourselves and see that this is their choice, and they are 100% responsible for it and the outcome
of it.
Note that there are nations in the Millennium; God’s Plan remains the affirmation of differences within the unity that the
Holy Spirit produces. There isn’t one culture and one language; diversity is celebrated in unity with Christ.
11:19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament:
and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we see the mercy seat, the ark of the covenant in the heavenly temple. The Ark of the Covenant is to confirm to the
Jews that God will keep His word. Moses had made copies of the original he had been given a vision of in the Mount of
God, but the original has remained in heaven. Even though the copy Moses made has been lost for 2500 years the real
one remains in heaven and will be upon the earth in the Millennial Temple.
It is noted that there are three words translated “to see” in this chapter with “blepo” referring to the seeing of the dead
bodies on television in verse 9, “theoreo” in verse 12, which implies to reason about [theoretical], and “horao” in this
verse, which deals with a panoramic view [horizon].
THE ARK OF THE COVENANT AND MERCY SEAT
APPLICATION
In the book of Hebrews it is clear that the tabernacle on earth is a complete pattern of that in heaven. Hebrews 8:5
This reminds us that the Lord will be unconditionally faithful to the Jews and by application to all believers.
He loves the human race and has done everything that is required to provide for the salvation of all members of the
human race.
This demonstrates that everyone who is saved, is saved in the same way, by faith in the person and work of the Lord
Jesus Christ.
The last phrases are signs of judgment again indicating the need for all to repent and come to acceptance of God’s free
gift of salvation. God forces none to accept his plan.
NOTES
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CHAPTER TWELVE
INTRODUCTION
As we have already seen, Revelation is an apocalyptic book, which utilizes symbols to explain God’s judgment upon evil,
but also the reach of God’s grace to lead the lost to the truth. Symbols are used not only to add graphic emphasis, but
also to at times conceal the true meaning from all who are not careful students of the Word. We also need to remember
that Satan and the fallen angels have no foreknowledge, and are able to know the future only by means of God’s written
revelation. As a result of this, some things are hidden from us, only to be revealed at the time they are needed to assist
the believers of that time, but keep Satan in the dark until the last minute. Our present confusion at times is this last
generation’s deliverance.
When the symbols of this chapter are correctly identified they will be seen in light of the rest of Scripture. Scripture
interprets scripture, especially in this area. This chapter before us now is the main passage which describes Satan’s
relationship to Israel during the Tribulation. At that time there will be a satanically organised campaign to wipe out the
Jews completely so that the Lord Jesus Christ cannot fulfil the covenants which have not yet been fulfilled such as the
Davidic and Palestinian Covenants.
He will launch his campaign with deception and the first three and a half years will be of great prosperity and many in
Israel will be deceived by the Anti-Christ, but at the mid-point in the seven years, when he sets up his statue in the
temple, he will disclose his malice towards Israel with violent fury. He will be able to wipe out two thirds of the Jews of
the land, but the surviving third rise up and fight him until the end when the Lord delivers them.
ANTISEMITISM IN THE TRIBULATION
12:1 And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet,
and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Appeared” is in the aorist passive indicative of “optomai”(our word optometry). The aorist tense indicates a point of time.
The passive voice indicates that the sign for the Jews is received from God. Indicative mood is the reality of the sign.
“Wonder” is better translated as a “wonderful sign” which appears in heaven. At this time people will see this “woman”
(who is Israel) as a great heavenly sign that God is indeed going to keep his ancient promises and return to this earth.
The woman who is clothed with the sun with the moon and stars under her feet is the nation Israel. Genesis 37:9-11.
The word translated “clothed” is in the perfect tense showing that the clothing is maintained. The clothing could be seen
as the genes of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The sun refers to Jacob - Genesis 37:9, 10. Jacob and Israel were often
used to represent the entire nation [Isaiah 40:27, 49:5, Jeremiah 30:10].
The moon represents Rachel who in turn became representative of Jewish women, especially Jewish motherhood.
Jeremiah 31:15, Matthew 2:18. The twelve stars are clearly the twelve tribes of Israel. The greatest wonder of the
earth’s history is the survival of Israel as a people. All these symbols were well understood by Jewish people of John’s
day, and their meaning is the one.
APPLICATION
Many nations have become extinct but Israel even though they have been dispersed, gone into captivity, and been
persecuted over the 4000 years since Abraham was called still survive.
They will continue to survive so that the unconditional covenants that God has with them can be literally fulfilled.
The Jews are themselves a miraculous sign from God.
12:2 And she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The child is the Lord Jesus Christ, and he comes from Israel, from Judah, as “king of the Jews” before he is King of
kings. Israel is shown as the mother of the regenerate remnant in Isaiah 7:14, 9:6, 54:1, 66:7-10, and Micah 5:3.
This verse tells of the woman's travail. This pictures the Old Testament sufferings of Israel in bringing forth the Messiah.
The word "pain" is “basanizo”, and actually means torture. The sufferings of Israel were largely an attempt by Satan to
destroy the nation before Christ could come forth, and all his malice has been focused upon Israel ever since to try to
eliminate them where-ever and however he could.
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The woman’s identity is determined by her relation to the child she is about to bear in this verse. Since the child is
clearly Christ as is evidenced by verse 5 (cf. Psalm 2 9; Revelation 2 27, 19:15); the woman must be the one who bore
Christ – Israel:
(1] That she is Israel and not only Mary, must be acknowledged as she gives birth to a Son who is to shepherd nations
and also by the fact that It is this woman who is persecuted during the last half of the tribulation (verses 13ff. ).
(2) The woman cannot be the Church as some suppose because the Church was not in existence when the Man-Child
was born; furthermore, there is no evidence of any Scripture supporting the idea that the Church gave birth to Christ.
(3) The Scriptural support for Israel is overwhelming as:
(a) The context is primarily Jewish, ''sun, moon, stars" is used in connection with Israel
(b) Israel is presented as a figure of woman (Isaiah 54:1-61 Micah 5:2-3).
(c) Israel did give birth to the Messiah as Micah 5:2 plainly states.
THE VIRGIN BIRTH
APPLICATION
Here we see the seed of the woman as per Genesis 3:15, and that the woman is the symbol of the nation Israel.
The vision here is therefore of the nation Israel just before the birth of the Messiah.
The line of the Messiah was Jewish and there was a lot of pressure on the line of Christ causing much anguish.
The Jews have always been under attack and remain so until the Lord’s return to personally deliver them at their request.
12:3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten
horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Red is the colour of rulership, and the colour of blood. It was the colour picked by many of the great armies to hide the
blood from their slaughter of their enemies.
The word “drakon” in the Greek was used by Homer, Pindar, and others for a person/being of very high intelligence, so
do not jump to visual conclusions about dragons from mythology. The word came from the classical Greek word
“derkomai” which means to see clearly and smarter than any one else.
“Having” is present tense means that he keeps on having. Seven heads relates to the world empires which have
dominated or dispersed Israel - Egypt, Assyria, Chaldea, Medio Persia, Greece, Rome and the Revived Roman Empire.
Ten horns comprise the ten nations or regions of his empire. Daniel 2:41-45, 7:20-22. The seven crowns refers to seven
out of these ten nations.
The word diadema is an old word from diadeo which means “to bind around”. This relates to the blue band marked with
white with which Persian kings used to bind on the tiara, so it refers to a royal crown in contrast with stephanos which
was a chaplet or wreath like the Latin “corona”.
The fact that Satan is at this time the “Prince of this world” is indicated by the fact that he wears diadems, the crown of
human authority rather than the crown of victory, the stephanos. He has usurped the authority over men by deceiving
them, and he has received their crowns to rule over seven of them, but his rule is temporary.
SATAN - THE ADVERSARY
APPLICATION
Here we have the angelic creature who is brilliant and very personable, but malicious to an extreme that few can guess
at. He is smarter than any other created being. He is able to deceive nations and many of the peoples of the earth.
The empires that have persecuted and dominated the Jews have been demonically empowered at times, or had great
demon influence over them. Anti-Semitism is at its heart demonic in origin, and Satan has focused his most malicious
power on attacking the people of Israel through the centuries. Hitler’s attempt to rebuild the old Roman Empire, Saddam
Hussein’s missile strikes on Israel in the Gulf War, and modern Iran’s (Medio-Persia) threats to stage a nuclear strike
upon Israel are examples of these old Empire’s on going demonically inspired malice towards the Jews.
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We note that in the book of Daniel, Michael the Archangel was delayed due to demonic forces he had to deal with in the
Persian court - Daniel 10:12 – 21. Even today it is Iran that continues to threaten to fire missiles at Tel Aviv telling us that
these powerful demons are still active in the area covered by the Old Persian Empire.
Many of the worst terrorism attacks have been launched in the areas covered by these old evil empires, for the demons
that ruled then are still active in producing malice today. Satanic malice is consistent, and sadly so is man’s ability to be
deceived. Remember as we note these things of Iraq and Iran that the modern inheritor of the mantle of gentile rulership
is Europe and America and they have been guilty of causing more innocent deaths in their “war on terror” than the
terrorists. The West will produce the Anti-Christ – not the Persians or Arabs.
In Daniel 7:8 it is seen that three of the nations have to be defeated before the ten nation confederacy submits to the
Antichrist. His rule is resisted by many, and they are killed and most are forced to submit, but the rebellion against him is
significant and many are saved in this terrible time period, but they pay for their faith with their lives. Daniel 11:38-44.
12:4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood
before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born.
Analysis and Background
This verse describes the context of the satanic rebellion against God and just how many of the angels fell following after
Satan. The stars of heaven are a reference here to angelic creatures. Job 38:7, Daniel 8:10. This verses then shows the
dragons/demons revolted against God. Isaiah 14:12-14, Ezekiel 28:11-19. They were cast to the earth.
The dragon “stood before the woman” is expressed in the imperfect tense, which indicates that he has always attempted
to do this. He has been constantly trying to stand there, and is constantly looking for an opportunity to destroy her. The
word translated “devour” means total destruction. It is in the subjunctive mood indicating a potential, “maybe he would
devour, maybe not”. In the Plan and Power of God he will most certainly “NOT” destroy the woman, nor hinder the plan
of salvation, even though at times it may appear a close run thing.
It is of interest that in both Greek and Egyptian mythology there are stories of dragons standing in front of a woman, and
her offspring eventually kills them. In the Greek story Leto gives birth to Apollo while being opposed by the dragon
Python. Apollo then pursued the dragon Python and slew him. In the Egyptian story the goddess Isis gave birth to the
sun god Horus as the red dragon Typhon was pursuing her. Horus eventually kills Typhon. These old pagan myths
retain the original biblical truth that flowed from the garden of Eden, that the “old serpent/dragon” would be dealt with by
the son of Adam and Eve. Genesis 3ff.
THE ANGELIC CONFLICT
APPLICATION
Satan was followed in his rebellion by a third of the angelic creation. If the evil army he raises in the Great Tribulation
numbers 200,000,000 demons there are vastly more than that in the universe and beyond it. It is a reminder that we are
not alone in this universe, and that the angelic forces are numerous beyond our imagination.
Satan in the past has always tried to eliminate Israel. To eliminate Israel is to eliminate the plan of God through that
people. He has been unable to do this, with his servants, like Adolf Hitler, going mad in the process, or being killed by
even more wicked people at times. Satan uses narcissism to recruit people and their own self interest or insanity
unhinges them in the end. In 2014 the next we will see fall in years to come, will be the Iranian dictator, whose hatred of
Israel lacks all sane logic and is clearly demonic in origin. Only time will tell whether he is the one to fulfil Ezekiel 38-39.
To be delivered refers to the virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ. Until Christ was born it was always Satan’s strategy to
attack the line of Christ. Here we are told that Satan tried to destroy the Lord Jesus Christ at birth. This is a direct
reference to Herod attempting to kill the young boys two years old and under. Satan continued to try and kill Christ
throughout His ministry at the wrong time or by the wrong method such as by stoning or a major fall from the roof of the
Temple rather than the crucifixion. He fails in all attempts.
There is an amazing amount of demonism recorded in the Gospels compared to the Old Testament as a whole.
Following the time period covered by the Gospels there is a decreasing obvious activity in demonism as the book of Acts
progressed, although the demonic and pagan evil at the core of the Roman Empire leads to violent persecution of the
believers for nearly 300 years. In past years many theologians had tried to explain away demons, as if they no longer
were active, but few today would attempt to do so, for their work through drugs and directly through paganism, immorality
and politics is easy to see. It will expand through the years to the end, but in the Tribulation period it will reach its
devilish crescendo.
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12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught
up unto God, and to his throne.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This person is identified as the ultimate Ruler of the nations; then His ascension is mentioned, passing by His entire life
and His passion. The reason for this omission is simply that the point of the passage is Satan’s war against Christ and
the focus here is upon its victory. Satan failed to destroy Him at this birth, and that He ascended proves that he failed to
destroy Him during His life and even in His death. This failure of Satan is proved by Christ's Ascension and Session.
“Who was to rule” means that he was destined to rule in the future, but he was not yet the ruler at the time of John’s
writing. There is absolute certainty that he will rule. Turning back to the woman in this verse , we see the birth of a son
who would "rule", or shepherd the nations with a rod of iron. This fulfils Isaiah 66:7-8 in the birth of Christ.
The prophecy comes from Psalm 2:9, cf. Psalm 110:1-2.
The Son is "caught up to God". This is the resurrection and ascension of Christ. (Hebrews 1:3, 8:1).
Notice that the word harpazo translated “caught up” is in the passive voice which reflects Acts 1:9, where it says that
Jesus was, or received, taking up into heaven. In the Acts passage we have the aorist, passive, indicative, of epairo
meaning to raise up. God is directing the Plan and it will be fulfilled completely and in every detail.
DAVIDIC COVENANT
PALESTINIAN COVENANT
ASCENSION AND SESSION
APPLICATION
This gives us an overview of the incarnation of the Messiah and his resurrection and session.
“Was caught up” refers to the ascension and session, with the arrival of the Lord Jesus Christ at the throne of God.
Here it is clear that Satan’s attempt to thwart the plan of God failed, with the Lord Jesus Christ dying at exactly the right
time, as he dismissed His spirit into the hands of the Father, and then was accepted at the place of honour at the right
hand of the Father.
The time of our death, as the Lords, is in the Lord’s hands. We can relax in the Plan of God for our lives, knowing that
the same precision of fulfilment we see here is expressed in our lives also as we walk with Him. “Greater is He that is in
us than he that is in the world”. 1 John 4:4.
Jesus Christ who is God, was totally in tune with the Father’s timing for His death, so that he surrendered His spirit to the
Father at precisely the same time that the Father had ordained.
12:6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her
there a thousand two hundred and threescore days.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The church age is omitted in this verse, and the scene resumes in the tribulation with Israel fleeing into the mountains of
Ammon, Edom, and Moab. Matthew 24:15-21. Remember the focus is upon Israel and John sees only the things
relevant to them at this point.
“Prepared” is in the perfect tense, meaning that the action referred to was prepared for in the past, and that it will be
perfectly accomplished with eternal results for all.
“Of God” means from the ultimate source of God. All things come from God and the Lord is indeed lord of history and all
things will work out as he has determined.
“That they should feed her there”, is a phrase that reminds us that God will protect his obedient people when they flee,
just as he kept Elijah alive by the brook Cherith. 1 Kings 17:1ff, Matthew 24:13-27.
The time between the first and second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ is compared with the time for Israel between
Egypt and the Promised Land. The Jewish people were all expecting a final deliverance in the wilderness.
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“One thousand two hundred and three score days is the period of the Great Tribulation - Daniel 7:25, Revelation 11:3,
13:5-7. This is half the seven years known as the Tribulation starting with the erection of the Abomination of Desolation.
INTERCALATION OR INSERTION
APPLICATION
The Lord provides for His own as they walk obediently to his plan - Matthew 6:25-34.
Being “all knowing” the Lord knows all of our needs, and will provide for them, if we will avail ourselves of his provision.
The last half of the Tribulation, the so called “Great Tribulation”, is also known as the “time of Jacob’s distress” Jeremiah 30:7.
WARFARE IN HEAVEN
12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought
and his angels, 12:8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“There was” means the war came to pass in a point of time that is in accordance with the plan of God for mankind.
There was a battle between two angelic forces, one led by Michael who will marshal the armies of the heavenly host
against the other one led by the dragon [Satan] and defeat him.
These two angels also fought over the body of Moses - Jude 9.
Michael was one of the chief heavenly princes, and is the guardian angel of Israel - Daniel 10:13, 21 12:1. Even with
Michael stepping aside the demonic forces cannot destroy Israel and thwart the plan of God, and so when Michael steps
back up to lead the angelic hosts, the satanic forces are truly doomed. It is another fact that is a nail in Satan’s doom.
Satan is expelled once and for all from heaven at what would appear to be the mid-point in the Tribulation period.
SIX ABODES OF SATAN
APPLICATION
There are angelic battles constantly through history with the forces of God always being victorious.
The fallen angels in these last days are going to be totally defeated, and they will be further and finally defeated when
they are put into the Lake of Fire. Satan was strategically defeated once and for all at the cross.
Ever since he rebelled against God he has been a loser who can win power only by deception. As we have seen the
signs of God’s judgment through the Tribulation period are the Lord’s direct way to break down Satan’s deception and
show to all mankind that the Lord is indeed King. God’s judgments prove to all that Satan is just a pretender to power he
doesn’t really have, and has never had.
Those who reject the grace of God share their future with Satan, whose future is the Lake of Fire. They do so only by
resisting the overwhelming evidence that the Lord is indeed king over all and the victor over sin and death. They join
Satan only because they prefer sin, evil and death to serving the loving God.
12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole
world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Cast out” is in the aorist tense, a point of time, passive voice, he received this, and the indicative mood is the reality of it.
Luke 10:18, Isaiah 14:12, Ezekiel 28:16. He has no power to resist this expulsion from heaven, and he will have no
power to resist his final judgment either. He is cast down to earth, and must be seen by all to fail here, so that justice is
finally and fully done before all mankind and angels.
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That old serpent is a name that refers back to the action of Satan in Genesis 3.
The name devil is from the word diabolos in the Greek, whilst Satan is from the word Shatan in the Hebrew.
THE WORLD
APPLICATION
The word diabolos is used three times for a person who gossips:1 Timothy 3:11 - slanderers
2 Timothy 3:3 - false accusers
Titus 2:3 - false accusers
Sins of the tongue are amongst the worst sins. - Proverbs 6:16-19.
Satan is the father of liars - John 8:44
In 2 Timothy 2:26 the snares of the devil are sins of the tongue.
Let us be fearful of resembling Satan in any way, and all gossip and negative speaking makes us resemble him.
12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our
God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our
God day and night. 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony;
and they loved not their lives unto the death.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Satan’s work at the moment is to constantly accuse the believing brethren. He is very rarely personally active on the
earth, for his demons are assigned to all areas of the earth to do his work here. He delights in mentioning believer’s sins
and acts of foolishness to insult the Lord by means of slander against us. All this is over at this time of judgment.
This verse announces the Second Coming of Christ and the setting up of His Kingdom. The blood of the lamb speaks of
Christ. John 1:29. The Word of their testimony is God’s Word, believed, applied, and lived for. Romans 8:37.
We are overcomers as believers in the Lord Jesus Christ when we hear the Word, believe the Word, and apply the Word
into life, worship and service for the one who gave himself for us. 1 John 5:4-5.
APPLICATION
We have an advocate right now in heaven, and he goes to bat for us when we sin and do foolishness; he is Jesus Christ
the Righteous - 1 John 2:1-2.
There is great rejoicing in heaven because Satan and his colleagues are ejected from heaven and his access to heaven
is removed forever. Heaven rejoices that they do not have to hear Satan’s evil any more.
The battle is the Lord’s and it is over in this day. 1 Samuel 17:47.
When the Lord Jesus Christ won the battle against sin on the Cross, He said, “It is finished” - John 19:30. It is indeed
over in this final day when sin and evil is swept from the blighted earth and it is restored to the glory it was made to
manifest in the garden of Eden.
We need to get our priorities and resultant actions right today, so that we do not give Satan opportunity to insult the Lord.
Are our aims those which will have eternal value? These tribulation martyrs set aside their own life only to find life’s real
meaning and significance through dying for the truth of Christ. (Matthew 10:39).
12:12 Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea!
for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
12:13 And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth
the man child.
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ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Therefore, while the heavens celebrate and rejoice, the world of unbelievers is in great woe for their day of judgment is
come. The devil has a "short time" to try and pull off his imitation of Christ through Antichrist and he launches his
assaults now with the greatest malice of all time. Satan knows he has a very limited time. His time of liberty is coming to
a close so through the Anti-Christ and his other rulers he launches all hatred upon the Jewish people and the believers
he can find in hiding.
This final 3-1/2 years begins with Antichrist claiming to be God in the third temple of the Jews (2 Thessalonians 2:3-9)
and then breaking his covenant with them (Daniel 9:27). Satan will concentrate his attack on the Jews from this point
onwards, and there will be open war upon them, for if he can eliminate them he will thwart the plan of God. Anti-Semitism
will intensify before the Second Advent to a level unseen before in the history of mankind.
APPLICATION
No wonder there is rejoicing in heaven when Satan is cast out as he has been maligning good people day and night for
thousands of years
There is woe for the earth for Satan is now full of wrath and anger, knowing his time is short and he is becoming
desperate, but he is no more successful; his real nature as deceiver and loser is being seen clearer and clearer by all.
After his expulsion from heaven, Satan hurls all his wrath motivated violence at the remnant of Israel. His malice is
rooted in their role to bring forth Christ. In addition if he can eliminate all the Jews there will be no fulfilment of the
Davidic and Palestinian Covenants. They also must ask the Lord to return, and if none exist they cannot ask!
12:14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her
place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This is the mid tribulational flight of the Jews that are caught in the Tribulation in Jerusalem when the idol is set up.
This verse is a reference to the angelic protection of the Jews during their flight. Moab, Edom, and Ammon are the
places to where they go, and there they are kept safe by their Arab fellow sons of Abraham, who have also seen through
the idolatry of the Anti-Christ by this time. Refer to Daniel 11:36-44 and Matthew 24:15ff.
“Time” is an ancient concept for a calendar/lunar year – so the time is three and a half years.
When God brought the children of Israel out of Egypt he bore them up on eagles wings into the wilderness - Exodus
19:4, Deuteronomy 32:11, Isaiah 40:31. Other Old Testament texts speak of God sheltering his people beneath his
wings - Psalm 17:8, 36:7, Jeremiah 49:22.
This flight into the wilderness (vs. 6, 14) will follow Antichrist's proclamation of his deity, centred on the idol called the
"abomination of desolation" (Matthew 24:15; Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11; 2 Thessalonians 2:4; Revelation 13:6). Not
only will the Judean desert be a hiding place, but the areas of the ancient nations of Moab, Ammon, and Edom will hide
the remnant (Daniel 11:41). This is a coming together of all the sons of Abraham to stand against their ancient enemy
Satan. Refer to the new 2010 EBCWA Book 121, on the Prophecy File on the CD, “Rediscovering the faith of their father
Abraham - The Arabs in the Last Days”.
APPLICATION
We have angelic protection now as believers, but this angelic protection is seen particularly of Israel in the second half of
the Tribulation period. If Michael has “stood back” in the first part of the Tribulation he is certainly stepping forward with
all his angels now, Daniel 12:1.
Remember, from the above passages, we can see that Michael’s forces outnumber Satan’s by two to one! Only one
third of the angels followed Satan, and two thirds are loyal and faithful servants of God still.
This time of Great Tribulation for believers is three and a half years, and the people of that day can set their watch on the
day when the Lord will return, starting their count from the day the Anti-Christ sets up his statue in the temple in
Jerusalem.
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12:15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be
carried away of the flood. 12:16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and
swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The “waters as a flood” represents armies pouring over the land. The overflowing scourge image is used for armies such
as the Assyrian empire which swept away the northern kingdom in 721 BC. This overflowing flood is also mentioned in
Daniel 9:26 in relation to the Roman invasion of Israel fulfilled in 67-70 AD. The persecution of all believers will become a
"flood" (Isaiah 59:19; Jeremiah 46:7-8) of Anti Semitism in an attempt to sweep Israel away.
This passage indicates that natural disasters such as earthquakes are used to thwart the advances of these armies.
God will sometimes help the righteous against their wicked human oppressors or adversaries by means of natural
phenomena. Numbers 16:31-32. If we look back and reflect upon the “judgments” of Revelation we see that each is so
devastating that the unbelievers hunting believers will be seriously distracted from their task by worries for their own and
their loved ones personal safety.
The judgments are indeed that, but they are also protective over the believers hiding in the wild and open places of the
earth, for there, under the heavens they do not need to fear the earthquakes and tectonic activity, and they have the
Lord’s promise that he will have the Holy Spirit and the angels guide them to safe places from the volcanism. To live
through this time believers must be Holy Spirit filled and led through prayer 100%.
ANTI-SEMITISM
APPLICATION
Satan has influence on pagan armies and seeks to destroy the Jews and all believers but they are protected by God.
The armies that Satan uses in this campaign are those of all the nations that have joined with him.
Sometimes pagan armies are used to judge nations who have turned away from God.
We must understand that Satan does this because if there is no Israel, the Kingdom promises and prophecies could not
be fulfilled. If God's Word cannot be fulfilled, Satan would be victorious over God. It is his last chance and he takes it
with complete malice. He is defeated by Holy Spirit filled believers everywhere, because 1 John 4:4 always applies.
God is in control of nature and as such can and does use natural phenomena to discipline armies or men’s schemes and
to protect believers. The very judgments upon the earth and Satan’s evil empire also protect obedient believers who
have hidden under the prayerful direction of the Holy Spirit.
12:17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which
keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The people who will be specifically attacked by Satan will include all the Hebrew Christians among the Jews at that time
as well as the 144,000 Jewish evangelists, and all their converts around the world. They will be protected in their
obedience to the Word of God.
The “Commandments of God” is the parts of the Bible which are pertinent to this situation.
At one time Napoleon was asked what was the greatest miracle of all time, he stated simply, “the Jews”.
When Satan sees his attack on the Jews of the desert fail (these are believing Jews), then he will turn on "the rest of her
offspring." This includes even those who have compromised and aided him (Daniel 11:32, 24). There is no loyalty to his
own followers, for he hates mankind from our creation, for we are the grounds of his condemnation.
These who "act wickedly toward the covenant" and "Join with them in hypocrisy" will now become his target. Most of
these will be in or around Jerusalem. Two thirds of the land will be taken and the people killed or captured. Zechariah
13:8-9. One half of the city of Jerusalem will be taken and the people who compromised will be all destroyed by him, or
through their newly found faith in Jesus be saved, and will fight from them onwards against him. Zechariah 14:1ff.
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Out of this persecution many of these who previously rejected Christ will turn to Him and "keep the testimony of Jesus."
Prophecy clearly indicates a divided remnant of Israel at the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. First the Lord will deliver
those in the desert of Edom (Isaiah 63:1-6; Daniel. 11:41), then His feet will touch Mt. Zion, and He will bring deliverance
to the surrounded believing remnant of Jews in Jerusalem (Zechariah 12:1-10; 14:1-8).
SATAN AND SATANIC ATTACK
SATANIC ATTACK ON BELIEVERS
APPLICATION
The accurate knowledge and application of the Word of God is of critical importance for spiritual and physical survival.
There is no question that Israel is one of the greatest phenomena of all times seeing what God has done to that nation,
for that nation, and through that nation. Through Israel God has done more to reveal himself as a personal God and the
need to have a relationship with Him than any other factor in human history.
12:18: And I stood upon the sand of the sea,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Whilst this occurs in the KJV as the first phrase in chapter 13 verse 1 it should be Chapter 12 verse 18.
The phrase, “I stood on the sand of the sea”, would appear to indicate that the author John was standing on the sand of
the seashore and looking at the events. The word “I” would be expected by be in the first person singular, however
analysis of the word stood shows that it is the aorist, passive, indicative, third person singular, which indicates “he”
[Satan] not John as implied in the phrase “he stood on the sand of the sea”.
APPLICATION
The sand of the sea represents the empire of the Antichrist. The “sea” was always a Jewish way of referring to the
gentiles of the West.
Here Satan is really [indicative mood] standing at a point of time [aorist tense] on the sand of the seashore, possibly to
see the arrival over the sea(Mediterranean) of his army from the West, as this is his final attempt to overcome the Jews
totally using this great combined army.
He will of course fail and all who join him in this last evil Anti-Semitic push will be killed by the Lord.
CONCLUSION
Anti-Semitism is a tragedy and is doomed to finally fail – in these last days it is involving three main characters:
1.
The Woman in Revelation. 12:1-2. The prophetic symbols of verse 1 find their origin in Joseph's dream of the
family of Israel (Genesis. 37:9-11). Notice that the interpretation is very clear to Jacob and the patriarchs. The
anticipated child, for whose sake the woman was tormented, is looked for in Isaiah 7:14; 9:6-7.
2.
The Dragon in Revelation 12:3-4 He has a 3-fold identification in 12:9 as Satan. The seven heads, ten horns,
and .seven diadems are identified in Daniel 2:7, 8, 11 and Revelation 13 and 17:
Seven heads - seven anti-Semitic empires of Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome, and Revived
Rome.
Ten horns - The confederation of Antichrist (Daniel 7:19-22; Revelation 13:1; 17:3, 9-13). Seven diadems - The
seven kings of the Anti-Semitic empires (Revelation 17:10).
Satan attempts to devour the Son (Matthew 2:16-18). The "stars" (vs. 4) are fallen angels (Job 38:7; Daniel
8:10; Revelation 12:9).
3.
The Unique Son in Revelation 12:5 The quotation from Psalm 2:9 identifies this as Christ--virgin born, crucified,
and caught up to the throne of God (Hebrews. 1:1-3; 8:1; Revelation 3:21).
Satan's anti-Semitic policy is in three stages:
1. The attempt to destroy Israel in the Old Testament.
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2 The attempt to destroy or divert the person of Christ from the Plan of God. (Matthew 4).
3. The persecution of Israel after the resurrection of Christ.
Anti-Semitism is an earthly, visible sign of the heavenly, invisible struggle of the Angelic Conflict (Revelation 12:7-9; cf.
Job 1-2).
Anti-Semitism will climax in the last half of the Tribulation period (Revelation. 12:6-17; Matthew 24:15-28; Daniel. 9:2627; Revelation 13:4-10).
This time is called in these passages, "half a week," "Great Tribulation," "42 months," "one thousand two hundred sixty
days," and is a 3-1/2 year period.
Satan employs a two-fold attack against Israel nationally and believers specifically.
1. Deceive the world (vs. 9). Promote concepts of humanism, internationalism, and socialism.
2. Malign and slander believers (vs. 10). While Satan accuses in heaven, his agents do the same on earth (1 Peter 2:12;
Romans 3:8).
NOTES
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CHAPTER THIRTEEN
INTRODUCTION
Chapter 13 introduces the devils two witnesses; the dictator of the Revived Roman Empire or the first beast, and the
dictator of Palestine, or second beast. These are the satanic servants, but become the two heralds of the second fall of
Satan. They are both religious and political dictators in their respective areas, the second obedient to the first.
The outline of this chapter is two-fold.
In verses 1-10 we are introduced to the first beast, commonly called the "Antichrist." Then in verses 11-18 we see a
second beast, most often referred to as the false prophet. Basically there are two Antichrists here, the Gentile one who
is “against Christ”, and a Jewish one, who is “instead of Christ”, illustrating the two meanings of the word “anti”.
There is a reason why there must be two of them, in addition to the need of Satan to counterfeit the Trinity. As we will
see, one of these is a Gentile political leader who will deceive the nations. The other will be a Jew who will present
himself to Israel as their religious and political leader, a false messiah figure, who will appear initially to bring in great
prosperity and peace like none before him.
Behind these two men will be a one-world government system that the devil himself is behind, and a one-world
ecumenical church seen as the whore of Revelation Chapter 17.
In addition to these two dictators there are four spheres of political influence, the Kings of the North, South, East, and
West.
THE GENTILE DICTATOR.
13:1 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten
horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
It was noted that the first phrase deals with Satan and should be included as verse 18 of chapter 12.
In contrast to the verb stood which is in the third person and should be translated “he stood” the verb saw is in the first
person singular and refers therefore to John and should be translated I saw.
This chapter should therefore start with the words “and I saw”, for this is now John speaking.
This beast is the dictator of the Revived Roman Empire and head of the World Council of Churches of the Tribulation
who later turns on the “churches” and eliminates them all in favour of idol worship of the image in the temple.
He is the figure that we have seen represented in Daniel’s vision. The ten iron and clay toes of the image. Revelation
17:8-13, Daniel 2:31-45. He is also the little horn. Daniel 7:8, 24-27
He is the “king that shall come.” Daniel 9:26,27
He is the “man of sin”. 2 Thessalonians 2:3-10.
He is called the beast because he is demon possessed, and thus possesses a thought pattern like a wild animal. This is
a man, but as satanic possessed he is beyond human emotions, and compassion is unknown to him. Revelation 9:11,
11:7, 17:6. This is a demonized man with no human emotions left; he is given over totally to Satan.
He is indwelt by the great demon called Appolyon or Abadon who has been given the key to the bottomless pit .
PROPHECY - THE KING OF THE WEST
APPLICATION
The first Antichrist comes out of the sea which means he is of the Gentiles and likely from the nations of the Western
World – the old Roman Empire peoples. Daniel 7:3
He has seven heads which represent the seven Gentile empires which have or will take self government from Israel Egypt, Assyria, Chaldea, Medio Persia, Greece, Rome, and the Revived Roman Empire.
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The ten crowns deal with ten independent nations or regions/groupings of nations.
In this regard it is interesting that the club of Rome has divided the world into ten regions. As the Beast’s empire is
worldwide the ten crowns could relate to the ten regions rather than ten countries.
On their heads was the name of blasphemy which shows that they are united in antagonism towards God; atheism,
idolatry, neo-paganism, and hatred of God binds them. Salvation by works, resentment towards the Christian God, and a
works theology/philosophy will be the system to draw all of this group together.
13:2 And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as
the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.
Analysis and Background
We have pictures here used to describe this last great satanic beast of a man, and they are all drawn from the empires in
the past that Satan used to try to hurt Israel. He is the last evil conglomerate pinnacle of power hungry/centred man.
The leopard - Daniel 7:6 - this is the Graeco Macedonian Empire who conquered the known world in 13 years. The
leopard shows the speed of the conquest of the Anti-Christ. Like Alexander the Great he will be faster and more ruthless
than any before him. Alexander was murdered by his own generals when he moved away from their Greek religion and
practises and adopted an internationalist philosophy.
Alexander got into internationalism demanding that his generals divorce their Greek wives and marry Persian princesses
to produce a super race. He was deluded enough to believe that he was indeed a god and that his men ought to believe
him, but they simply proved he wasn’t by murdering him. All his speed came to nothing, and all Anti-Christ’s speed will
also come to nothing. Daniel 11:31ff.
The bear - Daniel 7:5, 17, this represents the Persians and Medes with Cyrus the Great conquering the known world in
25 years. The bear is a great lumbering animal of incredible fierceness and mindless violence. The Persian army
lumbered along, and until they met the Greeks they were invincible. The size of their armies was extreme for their time,
and the size of Anti-Christ’s forces will be amazing to all who see them. The Persian bear was slain, and so will the
incredible forces of the Anti-Christ, by the very words that come from the Lord Jesus’ mouth.
The lion - Daniel 7:4 - the Chaldean Empire of Nebuchadnezzar. The lion is noble, strong, quick and fierce, and it was
the symbol of the Assyrians and the Babylonians. They were great indeed and had the culture and the nobility to
impress all people they met. The Anti-Christ will have this dynamic mixture of culture and fierce brutality. He will be very
impressive to all who do not have spiritual discernment, but all his culture will be stripped away, just as Germany’s was
under the Nazi hordes.
All the great beauty of ancient culture degenerates under evil’s control into murder on a horrific scale. The Anti-Christ will
also appear great, noble, strong, and cultured, but all will be stripped away in a millisecond when he unveils his statue in
the temple at Jerusalem and all will see him for what he is then, and the battles will not then go all his own way. Satan’s
narcissism is his weak point, for his followers are also self centred, and of course they all think they know best! Daniel
11:36-45.
The beasts John sees here are backward from the order of Daniel 7 because, while Daniel was looking forward, in
history, John is looking backward. The absolute stability and truth of the vision is seen here in the imperfect tense of eimi
showing a continuous state of affairs. In contrast we see a point in time when the dragon who is Satan gave his power to
the Antichrist, and that will make him incredibly strong, but he is vulnerable, as all Satan’s men have been, because they
share Satan’s pride, and do not see that they are mere mortals and will die like the beasts they are.
EMPIRES
TOWER OF BABEL
APPLICATION
Satan gives his authority to the beast - 2 Thessalonians 2 – just as the Father gave His authority to the Lord Jesus
Christ, but the Lord had real and lasting authority, whereas Satan’s man has temporary and limited authority.
The leopard represents the rapidity of conquest and the mingling of races in the Revived Roman Empire.
The empire of the Revived Roman Empire contains elements of all the empires which have oppressed Israel in the past.
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The power of internationalism is demonically inspired and finds its fulfilment in this time.
Jesus Christ was offered the kingdoms of the world but he refused the offer, Satan offers the same thing to the Antichrist
who accepts it. Matthew 4:1-11. Jesus quotes scripture as his absolute standard for actions; the Antichrist tries to destroy
the scriptures, for his standard, like Satan’s, is his own lust. Deuteronomy 6:13-16, 8:3. It will undo him, as lust always
does.
The symbols and terminology in the first two verses are taken from the book of Daniel.
The dream of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2 involved a great image representing the great Gentile world empires.
However the same empires are represented in Daniel 7 in Daniel's vision of wild beasts.
The empires that are attractive to man are seen by God in all their cruelty and ferocity. The best and worst of men is
seen in each of the empires, and the worst of men will be seen written large in this last one.
The "beast" is an individual, Revelation 17:11, and will come out of the seventh empire (revived-Rome). The "ten horns"
relate to the ten toes of the vision of Daniel 2, and represent a ten-power/region confederation of nations under ten kings.
Antichrist will subdue three of these by war or economic coercion, and then rule directly the rest. Daniel 7:8.
Therefore, Revelation 13:1-2 looks to the revived Roman empire of Antichrist which will include the characteristics of
former world empires represented by the leopard (Greece), bear (Medio-Persia), and lion (Babylon). Cruelty, greed,
ruthless efficiency, and the use of individual leader’s own lusts for motivation, characterized the management structure of
each Empire and the Anti-Christ will certainly combine them all at the highest level ever to be seen.
Over this empire Antichrist will rule with his Satan-given authority. At its heart is narcissism, and his individual self
interest will drive the people who support him, and reap the temporary benefits of the power exercised. These are cruel
and wicked people doing cruel and heartless things, driven only by their own lusts. They get what they want for three
and a half years, and then they get hell on earth, for that is always what narcissism always produces.
13:3 And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the
world wondered after the beast.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The phrase, “as it were wounded to death”, means that real death is involved and a miraculous resuscitation is involved
here. Remember the Devil has power to counterfeit many things and he is going to counterfeit a resurrection with his
Anti-Christ figure and deceive people into thinking that he cannot be killed. The Lord will prove that wrong in the end by
casting this evil man into the Lake of Fire.
The beast is a counterfeit Christ in the fact that he is born of the evil spirit. Satan is his Father, and so he is able to do
wonderful miracles, and the greatest of these is that the Antichrist is raised from the dead. It appears that an attempt is
made upon his life by way of assassination, and he is seriously wounded in the face, and disfigured by the attack. He is
healed by satanic power and probably launches severe punishments upon those who were part of the attack upon him.
Also a counterfeit Second Coming to rule the world can be seen here; he returns to rule after dying of his wounds.
The term “all the world” is qualified in verse 8 as unbelievers, as they do not include those whose names are written in
the Book of Life, who will not worship the beast but will in most cases suffer martyrdom instead. Keep in mind however
the contents of chapter eleven of Daniel, for the Arab nations return to the faith of their father Abraham at this time and
support the fleeing Jews, and the majority of them oppose the Anti-Christ, who they all now see as satanic through his
idolatry, and they successfully resist him militarily until the end. Simultaneously he faces rebellions against his authority
in the old Eastern Nations who practised polytheism before this. All his old paganism unravels around him.
"One of the heads" refers to Antichrist as one of the ten rulers seen in Revelation 17.
used for the death of Christ in Revelation 5:6.
"Slain" is “sphazo”, the very word
APPLICATION
It is possible for Satan to produce miracles and appear to bring people back from the dead.
The vast majority of the whole world worships the Beast. The worship is not from Western Europe alone, but because
Satan is the author of all pagan religion down the centuries the eastern nations return to their old ways and oppose the
new satanic religion and domination of these “western” forces. Racism and religious differences unravel Satan’s
alliances in the end. His own divisions, that he has used down the centuries to have man destroy himself, now work
against his final plans.
At this point of time he will have political control over the majority of the political world. Some stand against him, and
some escape his notice, and among these people some are saved and survive to the end of the Great Tribulation. Just
as in Nazi Germany, many survive in opposition out of jail, because Satan’s people are not as well organized as they
think they are.
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13:4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying,
Who is like unto the beast? Who is able to make war with him?
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Most people world wide are frightened by his power and see no human way to resist him, and they are right, for there is
no human way to totally resist him. The way of resistance is to flee and hide from his controlling systems, and many do
this around the world. the Lord also assists by each of the judgements that will unfold, for he has his hands full with
tectonic activity and other things that we will see that God unleashes on the evil ones who follow Satan’s man.
The concept of emperor worship originated in Asia Minor where the people had been released from tyrannical rule and
they were genuinely grateful. All dictators build on such gratefulness. The first act of emperor worship took place in
Pergamon in 29 BC where the citizens erected the first known statue to a Roman Caesar and burned a pinch of incense
to his “genius” (his god like spirit – that they believed was behind his protective work on their behalf).
In the first century the worship of Caesar became an official government requirement. Initially the edict was not taken
seriously but under Domitian every Roman subject had to sacrifice to Caesar annually and received a certificate to prove
they had done so. The person had to say aloud, “Kaisar Kurios” (“Caesar is Lord”) and burn the incense and many died
for refusing this in the years 90-313 AD, and many will die again in the Great Tribulation.
This was very awkward for both Christian and Jew, who as a result became persecuted. Some Caesars such as Gaius
(Caligula) and Nero started to believe, like Alexander, that they were indeed God in the flesh. As a result many refused to
sacrifice to these deluded men, and even though they were good citizens, whole families were fed to the lions for refusal
to offer the incense. These people were not persecuted for their faith as such, as the Romans saw it the were killed as
traitors, for they refused to worship the empire, as embodied in a man. it will be this concept that is used again by the
Anti-Christ.
A modern example of this “emperor worship” would be Hitler as he emerged in the 1930’s, and was almost worshipped
as God by a wide spectrum of the German people. They paid terribly for their self delusion, but the plots against him all
failed. He had demonic protection indeed and it kept him alive, but only long enough to ensure the German people truly
suffered for their worship of him.
The Lord ensured the Germany people had to face the full consequences of their evil worship of Hitler; there was no
easy way of escape or quick surrender possible. Just so it will be in the end of the Great Tribulation; people will either
bow to God or bow to the Antichrist. The Lord will ensure they have no third, fence sitting options. Those who bow to
Anti-Christ will pay a terrible price for their evil.
APPLICATION
Satan always tries to get man to do something for salvation; salvation by good works, salvation by ritual, salvation by self
improvement. Satan is happy with anything as long as people do not find Jesus as their saviour. Man by his own effort is
supposed to solve his own problems. Satan is the father of narcissism – self worship and self sufficiency.
God’s way is for God to solve man’s problems through faith in Christ.
The religion of the Tribulation is pure Satanism which is the source of all religion and it is based in self centeredness.
Christianity is not a religion but a relationship of man with God through Christ by grace and faith.
As a result of this satanic resurrection miracle, the unsaved world will be deceived into worshipping both the beast, and
ultimately Satan (who naturally works behind the scenes). No one will be able to "wage war" with him because he will be
known as the "god of forces", and he has all the military and political power. This is however deception, for he is not
invincible and nations and individuals will prove this towards the end of the period. Daniel 11:38, 39.
Worship means acknowledgment of worth, and the worth which people acknowledge in the beast is twofold:His uniqueness - "Who is like unto the beast?"
His might - Who is able to make war with him?".
We should worship the Lord Jesus Christ for His uniqueness, and what He did, is doing, and will do for us. The only
protection against falsehood is to know and follow the truth!
13:5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto
him to continue forty and two months.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Antichrist was given the ability to give great moving speeches. He is a master of politics and power manipulation.
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He is able to do what a lot of people have been trying to do over the centuries to put the Roman Empire together again.
Charlemagne in 800 AD, Napoleon in the 1800’s, and Hitler in the last century, have attempted to unite Europe but have
not succeeded, but this man will for a time and many will believe he can bring in world peace. This is his ultimate
deception, for he is the author of war itself.
The nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty was written originally regarding the Roman Empire. No one could put him together
again and the Antichrist will succeed for no longer than Adolf Hitler, and have a worse catastrophic result. Fortunately
this evil man will be the last of Satan’s men to try this before the Millennium.
APPLICATION
It is not the man but the message. It is not how well a person gives a message it is the content of the message and how
it ties in with the Bible. It is character that matters, not words, and sustainable works that prove the character. This man
proves who he is truly by his evil works.
It takes at least three and a half years to establish him self and a further three and a half years at the helm until the
Second Advent of Christ. He has power but it is used for evil purposes and it unravels because of the narcissistic nature
of evil itself. Those who follow after him get what they have sought and may wish they hadn’t!
13:6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them
that dwell in heaven.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
We have a three fold attack against God here, and by this he identifies himself fully and fatally, for the believers world
wide now have the evidence to use to convince their friends as to his real identity; he blasphemes with impunity!
[a] He blasphemes the name of God
[b] He blasphemes His tabernacle
[c] He blasphemes those that dwell in heaven.
The fact that we “skenoo” on earth clearly shows our brief stay. As believers we openly acknowledge this fact, but the
Anti-Christ acts as if he is here forever and cannot be beaten. His narcissism is his undoing, for he believes his own spin
doctors, and when you serve under the “father of liars” you are foolish to do that! John 8:44, 55.
APPLICATION
The attack is against the Lord Jesus Christ himself by blaspheming his name.
The attack is against Old Testament saints and present Israelites, represented by the tabernacle.
The attack is against the departed Church, those who by then dwell in heaven.
13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him
over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
He was permitted within his area to move against the saints and martyr them. In the built up and well controlled cities of
Europe and America there are few places for believers to hide from CCTV surveillance, Smart Phone Tracking devices,
and the EFTPOS system will enable people to be tracked and arrested quickly. Those who affirm faith in Jesus lose their
lives, but win eternal crowns of glory. He builds evidence for his being sent to the Lake of Fire eternally and those he kills
win eternal rewards.
He was also allowed to have power over the majority of the world’s political structures and even places he doesn’t
directly control he can influence and enforce at least some of his powers.
The word “overcome” means believers are witnessing by dying grace. They remain undefeated, even though killed.
Here we see the world wide political control exercised by the Antichrist and his supporters.
This verse relates to Daniel 11:33-35.
PROPHECY - ONE-WORLD GOVERNMENT
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APPLICATION
It is noted that Satan gives the power and mindset to war against God and exterminate God’s people.
The Beast will for a time prevail, and many of the saints will suffer and die, but out of this will come many heroes of the
faith who will bring eternal honour to the Lord Jesus Christ, and personally win eternal rewards. They will not die without
purpose, for many seeing their courage and hearing their testimony will also later accept the Lord themselves.
God sometimes allows the ungodly to prosper for a short time, and even evil things are able to be used for his ultimate
glory. Romans 8:28. Often in dying you can have great impact for Christ. Their witness will be “unto death”, but their
witness will go on to future generations as an example of courage under fire. They will witness to their own and many
people, then and later. No believer goes through the vale of death without the Lord, apart from the sin unto death Psalm 23:4.
13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the
Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Those who are unbelievers will all follow the beast and worship him. Without spiritual discernment and power from the
Holy Spirit unsaved men will fall before the Beast.
The book of life - Philippians 4:3, Revelation 3:5, 17:8, 20:12, 15. The book of life has the names of all members of the
human race, but at death, if the person has not believed in Jesus, their name is rubbed out of the book of life.
Therefore, at the end of time, only those who have accepted Christ as Saviour, or those who have not reached the age of
accountability will remain in the Book of Life. at this time all who survive the Tribulation enter the Millennium, and the
young children have the chance to grow up in perfect environment. Their final test comes after 1000 years of perfection,
and many will follow Satan, even after this time with the Lord. Man is free and all will eventually make their own choice
for or against the Lord.
APPLICATION
Those who are not in God’s book are the ones who will worship the Antichrist; which is worshipping Satan. The Antichrist
will have religious power over the world as well.
While the world worships the self-proclaimed false saviour, there will be many exceptions. The world will accept the lie
because they have rejected the truth. John 5:43. When people reject truth, they open themselves to delusion and
deception. We are also told that Antichrist comes "with all the deception of wickedness for those who perish”, because
"they did not receive the love of the truth so as to be saved." 2 Thessalonians 2:10-11.
From this comes a principle; when we reject the truth, we will in time automatically accept what is false in its place, and
we are responsible for all that flows from such stupidity and evil. The exception to this false worship is the believer whose
name is written in the Lamb's book of life which is the record of those who have put their trust in Jesus Christ for eternal
life. The Bible speaks of those whose names are "blotted out" of the book because every person initially has their name
written in the book, Exodus 32:32-33; Psalm 69:28, because Christ died for all mankind. 1 John 2:1-2, 2 Peter 3:9.
When one dies without faith in Him, his name is blotted or smeared out of the book. This is the basis for eternal
condemnation. John 3:16-19; Revelation 20:15, 21:27. It is rejection of Christ that eliminates eternal life from each
person. Through his work for them they are through his grace, in the book of life, but failure to accept him by faith leads
to their elimination from the book on their death.
13:9 If any man have an ear, let him hear.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“If” is a first class condition, if and it is true, he has an ear. All mankind is responsible for their choices, for all can hear
the words of the Lord and respond. “Hear” is in the aorist, active imperative hear at a point of time [aorist tense], you
must do the hearing [active voice], it’s an order [imperative mood]. This is a connective verse between the two halves of
the chapter.
APPLICATION
If you have normal means of perception you can receive the message of the Scriptures. It is a matter of your free will as
to whether you receive it or not. We must concentrate on the message and apply it to our life. Hebrews 3:17 – 4:6. Man
is challenged to take the truth seriously, but those who side with the Anti-Christ fail to do that and pay the price of
foolishness.
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Comparison with this verse with seven similar verses in chapters 2 and 3 shows that the phrase, “what the spirit says to
the churches”, is absent from this verse, confirming that the church is in heaven by this time.
This also confirms that there will be many believers in the Tribulation, but the majority may be martyred, although many
believing people world wide welcome the Lord at his Second Coming. We are instructed to listen and pay careful
attention to the Word of God in all ages, but it is vital in last days. Those who do not know the Word of God in that day
will not survive, as they will not recognize the “signs of their times” and do the right things to survive.
13:10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the
sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The word “sunago” means “to bring together” rather than “ago” which means to lead
This is incorrectly translated. The first phrase should be translated into English, “if he is for, or practices, captivity he will
go into captivity”. If they kill by the sword they will be killed by the sword. The Lord ensures that all who practise evil are
made to suffer the same fate they visit upon others. The armies which enforce this order of Antichrist by killing the
innocent, will themselves be killed before or at the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ.
This period is a time when believers who know the Word of God will find comfort resting in the promises of God and
trusting in him. Some will be able to escape and will get right through to the Lord’s return, but others will not, but each is
to walk the path they are called to with courage and focus upon the Lord alone.
Here we see that whatever God has determined, will come to pass, but believers trusting in the Lord will be able to relax,
and many will be kept through this time in hiding, and will live to see Jesus come. Then we are told, "Here is the
perseverance and the faith of the saints." John's statement goes back to the message of Jeremiah 15:1-3, where God
warns of the destruction of Judah. Also refer Jeremiah 24:4-7, Psalms 68:20, 116:15.
Though people had rejected the teaching of Jeremiah for years, when crisis came they would come to him asking,
"where shall we go?" To which God told him to answer, "Those destined for death, to death; and those destined for the
sword, to the sword; and those destined for famine, to famine; and those destined for captivity, to captivity."
In other words, the die was cast. God's will would be done. But in this was also comfort for those who had been faithful.
In the Great Tribulation, those who quickly learn, and obey the Lord’s words relating to this time, will be delivered in their
hiding places world wide. This is a time when salvation needs to be followed by serious and intense study of the Word of
God, so that the believer knows to prepare to hide and is able to do so effectively from the evil religious authorities.
Remember, the people who become believers in this time frame are people who have previously resisted and rejected
Christian witness. It is only after the Church is removed that these people realise their Christian friends were right and
are saved. Once saved they must move very quickly, and take all actions they can to advance their spiritual growth.
PROMISES OF GOD
APPLICATION
If anyone has the policy of enslaving other people they will be made slaves before this time is over.
The Revived Roman Empire will enslave all nations by its economic system, but all the dictators who lord it over their
people, and follow after Satan, will suffer their just fate at the hands of the Lord on his return. Hebrews 10:30-31, 12:29.
God’s punishment will fit the crimes of each and every person.
We can demonstrate to others our faith if we rely on the Lord in times of great stress and claim the Lord’s promises.
THE JEWISH DICTATOR
13:11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as
a dragon.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This beast is the Jewish dictator of Israel, and head of the corrupt and liberal Judaism in the Tribulation. He passes
himself off as the promised “new age” Messiah. Genesis 49:16-18 – Possibly from the tribe of Dan, (or be a Jew from
that northern area around old Dan) he is referred to as the serpent who strikes the horses heel, Revelation 16:13, 19:20,
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20:10 - the false prophet, Daniel 11:36-40 – and the king who does his own will. He brings in the fake spirituality that
Satan delights in and he brings the Idol into the temple just as the Hellenized Jews of the days of the Maccabees did.
The word translated “another” is another of the same kind (he also is satanic). The word for earth is in contrast with sea
and is a technical word for Palestine. He has two horns as a lamb and therefore claims to be the Messiah. The two horns
represent power. The present tense here indicates that he keeps on having power. He speaks however from Satan
himself. The power is from Satan, this dictator is also demon possessed and remains in that condition until he is cast into
the Lake of Fire.
The false prophet/messiah does seven things:[a] - He exercises unlimited authority in his satanic assigned sphere [v 12]
[b] - He forces the people to worship the Roman Antichrist [v 12]
[c] - He performs great miracles [v13]
[d] - He deceives the population [v14]
[e]- He forces the people to worship the image of the Antichrist [v 14]
[f] - He murders all non conformists [v15]
[g] - He forces man to receive the mark of the beast [v 16]
If we compare verses 11-14 with Daniel 11:36-39 and 2 Thessalonians 2:9,10 we begin to realise what a miracle ministry
this man will have.
APPLICATION
Often top political leaders are not in power for the betterment of their people but for personal power lust.
Many people have falsely claimed to be the Messiah of Israel in the past. The only Messiah is Jesus.
We should look objectively at people and analyse their character from the foundation of the doctrines of Scriptures and
not by their oratory – Matthew 7:13-23, Romans 16:17-18.
13:12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell
therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This person is an absolute dictator in his own area and here we have the treaty described that they make between them.
These two evil leaders agree to share power, resources, and work together to establish the Satanic “One world order”,
but the western dictator intends to break the treaty when it suits him, just as Hitler did to Stalin after their treaty.
”Before” indicates his presence and this is a technical connotation of a treaty. This part of the verse literally translated
states, "He exerts all the authority of the first beast in his presence". Part of the alliance is that the people of Palestine
will have to worship the first beast. The two satanic leaders pretend to be what modern Judaism mistakenly believes to
be the twin coming messiahs; Messiah, Son of David (political) and Son of Joseph (religious). They deliver what those
who reject Jesus want to believe will happen. They deceive and finally they themselves are deceived as to their power
and ability, for the real messiah returns and destroys them both together as the first inhabitants of the Lake of Fire.
APPLICATION
This treaty confirms the prophecy in Daniel 9:24-27. God knows the future and keeps His Word.
The second dictator acts as a false Holy Spirit as he points to the Antichrist as the real “god of this world” so that all
should worship him.
The true Holy Spirit causes the world to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. By their “fruits” all people and forces are known.
13:13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of
men,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This leader in Palestine does great wonders indicating great “spiritual” power and ability. It is real and has Satan as its
origin, not any extra-terrestrial origin, as he may claim at the time. Both these “beasts” have super natural power and
they give real evidence of that fact. Those who want power to solve man’s problems certainly get evidence that these two
men have it, and all who do not worry about its source or its actual “works” are deceived to their deaths.
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It is noted that he has the ability [subjunctive mood] to bring fire down from heaven and he does, likely with great loss of
life amongst those who initially stand against him. Ironically the first victims of this man will probably be atheists who
have rejected Jesus on philosophical grounds.
Satan actually hates atheism, almost as much as he hates Christians, for such people are true “free thinkers” and will
never bow their knee to anyone, even the Anti-Christ. The second group may be the world Council of Churches type
people who have genuinely been deceived into thinking he is the answer to world religious unity. He is, but not as they
thought. Satan prefers and also despises religious people for they can be fooled so easily.
The word translated “wonders” is the same as that for miraculous “signs and wonders”. When people reject the works of
God they are choosing to receive the opposite.
APPLICATION
We need to ensure that we do not get sidetracked by any “signs and wonders” of leaders. Many people today will follow
the “signs and wonders” movements run by men who market themselves as special. The source of the signs, and their
fruits in the lives of the wonder workers, are the two key questions to analyse the “works” significance. The source is
clearly identified by the nature of the fruit. Matthew 7:13-23.
We need always to remember the text, “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world”. 1 John 4:4. No believer
is to be scared in the presence of a worker of evil with real power; they are to be resisted in Jesus name. James 4:7-8.
We could expect as we draw near to this time that manifestations of this type would increase. As the days darken
believers need to be more discerning as to the origin of all visible/felt spiritual realities. Matthew 7:13-23.
When John the Baptist identified the Lord Jesus at the beginning of His ministry, he pointed to the Lord and said, "Behold
the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world." It is only through Jesus that mankind is saved. Acts 4:10-12.
God, from the time of the fall of man, had instituted the principle that men could approach God only through blood
sacrifices, and God had set apart the lamb as the peculiar animal for sacrifice. So when the Lord Jesus Christ came to
be the sacrifice for the sins of the world, He was introduced as “The Lamb of God, who would take away the sins of the
world”.
When Satan introduces his great masterpiece of religious deception, he has a replica come, just as the Lord Jesus Christ
came, like a lamb. This evil man is however a wolf in the disguise of a lamb! Satan cannot point to this one and say
"Behold the lamb that taketh away the sin of the world, " for this one is a deceiver, who is fashioning his message after
the Father of lies, Satan himself.
This last ultimate evil one is not coming to bring men a revelation from God nor salvation from God. He comes to kill and
destroy mankind. This one is coming to blind men, lest the light of the glorious gospel should shine upon them and they
should be saved. He will not have total success, for many chose death by martyrdom rather than worship of these two
evil men, and many resist them far and wide and hide from their execution squads and greet the real Lord on his return.
13:14 And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in
the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast,
which had the wound by a sword, and did live.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This is the abomination of desolation, which had its first fulfilment in the erection of a statue of Zeus by the Syrian King
Antiochus Epiphanes (that looked remarkably like the king himself!) in the Temple at Jerusalem. The statue was in place
from June 168 to December 165 BC, a period of three and a half years. The cleansing and rededication of the temple in
that day is remembered in the Jewish Feast of Lights, Hanukkah, which occurs in early December.
John the Baptist saw that Jesus was the true light who had come into the darkness of the evil world. John 1:4-9. Jesus
used this very Feast day to announce that he was the true “Light of the World”. John 8:12. Men are judged by their
attitude towards the light Jesus brings. John 3:19-21, 36.
As part of the pagan worship during the evil times this Syrian king, the precursor of the Anti-Christ, sacrificed swine on
the altar. This caused the start of the Maccabean Wars which brought the Jews freedom for about a hundred years. It
pre-figures exactly the events of the Great Tribulation, and the Jews of this later day will need all the courage of these old
heroes and absolute faith in and obedience to the Word of God before the Lord’s return to deliver them personally.
THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION
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APPLICATION
Power hungry people will try to set themselves up over others. In extreme cases they will consider themselves to be
gods. This has happened through history, and will reach its ultimate height of evil in this final period of world history. By
studying Satan’s actions in the past Bible students have a good idea of his future plans also, for he doesn’t tend to
change his plan through time, believing in his arrogance always that the “people weren’t quite ready” for him last time.
Satan never accepts that he has got is wrong; that is why he and his men are able to be beaten. He has always got it
100% wrong, and always will, and he will be defeated. It is this truth that will keep believers going in that future day.
There is often a first pre-fulfilment of a prophecy in the Bible followed by the real one such as here; Antiochus being a
type of the Antichrist but not the Antichrist. He prepares the way for the later generation of Jews to quickly understand
what is occurring to them, for they have studied their own history and can see the parallels.
While these pre-fulfilments are Satan’s “dry runs”, and were real attempts to destroy the Jews, they are also his attempt
to deceive the last generation of mankind also, by making it appear that the Bible is simply a history record, looking back
to the past (as the liberal theologians argue). In that day the believers will understand that both Revelation and Daniel
are prophetic books, not as the pagan German theologians have argued histories written after events.
13:15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak,
and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here a demon enters into the statue and makes it speak, and gives a form of animate life to the statue. This is not real
life, but a visual impression of real life. Satan tries to make out that his servants are able to bring life to dead objects and
as such are clearly God, but this sign like all others are deceptions. The idol is destroyed, it is not cast into the Lake of
Fire, for it remains a “thing”, not a living being, even though it is made to appear like one.
Jesus warned in the Sermon on the Mount of Olives, Matthew 24-25, that the great warning sign to the Jews in the
Tribulation was the ''abomination of desolation which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy
place ". Matthew 24:15.
Simply put, this refers to the time when Antichrist will break his peace covenant with Israel, Daniel 9:27, and will set up
his own image in a dramatic and impressive manner in the Jerusalem temple declaring to the world that he is God in
human form. He gives serious signs of power and signs which cause great wonder amongst those that see them, but
they are deceiving sings, “lying signs”. Read Paul’s warning carefully in 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, then read the next
verses 13 – 17. God’s Word alone is the “comfort” in these terrible days, and He will do it through the work of the Holy
Spirit in the hearts by means of the Word.
This dramatic event at the turning point of the Tribulation Period is taught in Daniel 7:23-25, 11:31-35, 12:11, Matthew
24:15, and 2 Thessalonians. 2:3-5, which reads in part, "he takes his seat in the temple of God displaying (proclaiming)
himself as being God." Arrogance and self centeredness always gets the better of Satan and his men and women.
BELIEVERS/CHRISTIANS UNDER PRESSURE
APPLICATION
The prerogative of giving life rests with God alone. Satan however can use demons to falsely represent that he can give
life, cf the demon possessed slave girl in Acts 16:16. The fake may appear real until it is face to face with the truth.
Apostate religion will always kill believers unless restrained. Even in this worst of times, the Holy Spirit is still active and
people are assisted by God, led by God, and delivered by God. Many believers survive to welcome the Lord’s coming
and they are those who seriously study the Word and believe it, and encourage their hearts and minds through its words.
13:16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right
hand, or in their foreheads:
Analysis and Background
There are three Greek words translated “mark” in the New Testament.
1.
“Charagama”
which is the one used in this context which was an impressed mark or engraving and is a
mark which indicates submission to the world government and specifically the leader the Gentile Antichrist.
2.
“Stigma”
this is a tattooed mark or a mark burnt in a brand as in Galatians 6:17
3.
“Skopos”
an aim or object to be achieved as in Philippians 3:14
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This is the counterfeit seal, the mark of the Beast. Marking of your body was forbidden to all Jews under the Mosaic Law
- Leviticus 19:28. This was a warning in advance to protect all Jews from ever accepting any mark on their body from
anyone claiming to be God, for God would never order the Mosaic Law broken. By this action the False Prophet betrays
his satanic origins to all Jews who are reading the Bible. Deuteronomy 13:1-18, 18:9-22. It is of interest that one of the
witnesses the Lord sends before these events is Moses to remind the people of the Mosaic Law. It is their safety code.
Whilst “Didomi” is in the active voice it is combined with Autos meaning “to them”. Didomi is also in the third person plural
which combined with the subjunctive mood means that the government had the potential to give the mark. The phrase “to
receive a mark” is literally from the Greek “in order that they should give to them a mark”. This tells us that the receiving
of the “mark” of the beast only occurs at the instigation of the Anti-Christ through his False Prophet, and that nothing in
existence in today’s pre-Rapture world is the “mark of the beast”.
Whilst the use of micro chips, tattooing of bar codes, and the use of laser marking is becoming common today, they are
simply pre-cursors and demonstrate that the technology is available to do this, and through surveillance technology to
enforce it on all who stay within the cities and technology that the Anti-Christ can control. As we hold the Bible and
modern technology together we see why the Lord orders believers to flee the easily monitored/controlled cities in these
last days.
ANTICHRIST RISE AND FALL
APPLICATION
This is what happens when satanic religion gets ascendancy. All religion is satanic, for the truth is relationship, and that
is by means of God’s grace provision of the Saviour alone. Isaiah 43:11, Acts 4:12, 16:31.
When religion and state become one there is no freedom for the individuals in that nation; there is only escape from
technology that will then be the means of enslavement and death.
13:17 And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of
his name.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The subjunctive mood of dunamai shows that the potential for buying and selling is based on whether you have the mark
or not. The use of EFTPOS and Direct Credit facilities in today’s world give us a clue as to how the Anti-Christ and his
team can achieve this. If he can convince the governments of the world to abolish coinage and have electronic money
only he gets total control of people’s ability to buy and sell, except in an underground market. This barter market will be
the only one open to believers in this time. The significance of the Lord’s instruction to “flee to the mountains and wild
places” becomes clear now, for believers must escape all electronic means of monitoring their activities and movements.
The mark of the beast is some traceable and enforceable form of identification. It originally was a brand on the hand or
forehead of a Roman recruit who had successfully undertaken the stringent training required to be a part of a military
team. The recruit held the mark in high esteem and it set him apart from the rest of the populace. As the Roman brand
was a mark of pride and status, it may be that the “mark of the beast” is originally marketed to the population as a “mark
of distinction” and power. It is the “triple A credit rating”, likely with great material benefits to those accepting it; much like
the Nazi Party badge in Germany until her defeat!
This is a method by which people find out who is in the system and who is not; who is one of Satan’s “winners” and who
is a rebel against the new “One World Order” and to be targeted for elimination. If you are outside the system you cannot
trade or conduct open and successful business in the New World Order. To obtain the mark you have to worship the
beast. Believers must separate themselves and bear the shame, and be prepared to die for their genuine faith. They will
be seen as “losers” by those who embrace the new world order, just as non-Nazi’s in the concentration camps of the
1930s were despised by those who only saw Hitler as bringing Germany back to order, prosperity, and power.
The are currently three methods for such identification.
[a]
The mark - the identification card/brand/implanted micro-chip for easy reading by automated machines at
police/military checkpoints and points of sale.
[b]
The name of the beast - probably an identification for the clergy or active servants of Satan at that time.
[c]
The number - probably a mark/bar code to identify economic/political/social importance and personal identity.
PROPHECY - ONE-WORLD FINANCE
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APPLICATION
If you can control the economy of a group or nation you control that nation. With the computer systems available today
this is possible on a global scale for the first time in history.
In 1995 Dr and Mrs Moses were able in the centre of a National Park in America to not only withdraw cash from their
account in suburban Perth almost instantly but also to get the balance at that bank. All such transactions were recorded
and monitored. At every point we use our credit/debit cards today we are identified as being at a set place, at a set time,
with latitude and longitude coordinates that can be traced later. This information is, twenty years later, instantly available
to anyone wanting to track us if they have the required access. Things are speeding up and instantaneous surveillance
is possible today, with tracking of a “suspect” real time to their arrest by co-ordinated forces.
Now believer, today do not be distracted by these facts, or spend precious time studying them intensively. Today this
doesn’t matter at all, and believers don’t need to concern themselves with it, but in the Tribulation the believers need to
escape this system as soon as they see the Anti-Christ revealing himself and preparing for this level of population control
and manipulation.
13:18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a
man; and his number is six hundred threescore and six.
Analysis and Background
Here we have the number of the beast as 666 . Six is the number of man three the number of God so 666 indicates man
being deified which is what the first beast claims. At the time the complete significance of these numbers will be clear to
the believers, but the meaning of the number is the key for them. It means that the man is claiming to be God and is
exercising god-like control over the earth. In both the Greek and Hebrew each letter has a number associated with it.
All who receive this mark actually seal themselves for eternal judgment Revelation 14:9-11, for this expresses rejection
of Jesus Christ and worship of Satan.
Application
The Antichrist, who will not be fully revealed until after the Rapture of the Church, will have a name that will add up
numerically to 666. He will claim god-like status, and finally directly claim to be God after his assassination and
“resurrection”. It appears that believers may have the first 3 ½ years to prepare, but once he claims to be God and sets
up his statue they must be ready to “disappear” from the cities and places of technology, or they will be quickly found and
executed. This process may begin earlier, so they may not have all this time! At that terrible time they must act as soon
as the Holy Spirit shows them the significance of the number 666.
Those that are “wise” are the believers who study the Word of God in the Tribulation. They are commanded to compute
the number of the Beast and avoid the mark themselves. That means they will have to establish barter networks and be
able to feed themselves by private underground trade in food for the entire last 3 ½ years of the Great Tribulation in order
to survive. Those saved in the first part of the Great Tribulation by the evangelism of the Jewish witness may have time
to prepare for what is coming, but those who do not devour the Word of God and learn what they need to do in time will
perish. To go to a supermarket and try to buy food as a believer in that day will lead to arrest (for not having the mark of
the beast) and to death (if the believer refuses the mark)!
We are to be wise and understand the Bible and apply it to our lives or we lose our lives!
CONCLUSION
This chapter taken as a whole, is one of the great prophetic chapters of Scripture and is the only passage which presents
in any detail the two principal evil characters of the end of the age who form with Satan, an unholy trinity. Believers of the
last seven years of this age will need to know this chapter and apply it. That means establish hiding places and avoid
open trade in electronically controlled environments. If they do not do this they will become either controlled by the
Antichrist or be martyred.
NOTES
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CHAPTER FOURTEEN
INTRODUCTION
In Revelation 14 there are seven proclamations given from the divine side aimed at doing three things:[a] To predict the failure of the counterfeit Trinity.
[b] To announce the results of the approaching last seven judgments known as the bowl or vial judgments.
[c] To give words of encouragement to the saints living in the second half of the Tribulation.
First Proclamation - 1-5 gives an opportunity of grace in the Tribulation
Second Proclamation - v 6-7 calls on the inhabitants of the world to choose between Christ or Antichrist
Third Proclamation - v 8 announces the fall of political Babylon which is amplified in Revelation 18
Fourth Proclamation - v 9-12 concerns those who take upon themselves the mark of the Beast and shows that it a point
of no return. They will drink of the wine of the wrath of God.
Fifth proclamation - v 13 is a word of encouragement and comfort and concerns the saints who will die in the second
half of the tribulation with a special blessing.
Sixth Proclamation - v 14-16 is one of reaping
Seventh Proclamation - v 17-20 deals with the treading of the grapes which is a common symbol of judgment. The
treading takes place outside the city of Jerusalem.
THE OPPORTUNITY OF GRACE IN THE TRIBULATION
14:1 And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand,
having his Father's name written in their foreheads.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Lamb is the Lamb of God - John 1:29, Jesus Christ is standing for the Second Advent is about to start. Here John
sees the same Jewish remnant of EVANGELISTS as appeared in Revelation 7:1-8.
After the rapture of the Church the "partial blindness" of Romans 11:25 will be removed and 144,000 Jewish evangelists
will begin the task of evangelising the tribulational earth. They will be successful and many people will be saved as a
result. Now they are seen in victory, standing with the returned Christ on Mt. Zion, (which covers potentially any or all of
the mountains around Jerusalem) the location of His Second Advent arrival. Zechariah 14:1-11.
These people have the mark of the Father and we find the "seal" of Revelation 7:2 is the name of God the Father.
ZION
PROPHECY - ISRAEL'S RETURN
APPLICATION
We are sealed by the Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption.
The Lord associates and has fellowship with obedient disciples. John 15:14, 20-27, Revelation 3:20.
The Lord always provides the right people in the time of need and rewards faithful servants.
14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I
heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
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The hidden source of evil is the dragon as depicted in chapter 12; the character of the two beasts through whom Satan
works as revealed in chapter 13, but what we see now delights our eyes, and what we hears pleases our ears.
Voices as of many waters are probably the heavenly chorus, the voice of great thunder, music and harps indicating a
large string section. Harps were used by Levites and priests in the worship in the earthly temple. The dark days are
nearly over and the ground swell of worship is what is heard rather than the leis of the Anti-Christ and his sidekick the
false prophet.
APPLICATION
There is a great chorus in heaven with myriads singing, majestic music, and the sound of harps. Here John describes the
song of the 144, 000. It was a tremendous sound like the voice of many waters (indicating the pleasant and powerful
melody) and the sound of thunder (indicating its loudness).
It resolves itself into the voice of harpers playing on harps and singing a new song.
14:3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no
man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The 144,000 Jewish evangelists were able to learn the song as they maintained their separation from the pagan religion
of the Anti-Christ and preached the truth of God instead.
They are singing a "new song" which compares to the song of Revelation 5:9 referring to the raptured Church.
Like the "new name" Revelation 2:17, this speaks of personal experience with Christ under the grace of God that they
alone know and possess. Spiritual growth has its privileges and these people were capable of more worship that others
because of their dedicated lifestyle and faithful witness.
The word "purchased", “agorazo”, refers to the redemption of
one from the slave market. These people are saved and have served faithfully through the dark days.
APPLICATION
The lyrics of a song are the important item as this is what the intellect responds to while the emotions generally relate to
the music. It is essential if you are going to worship the Lord in spirit and truth that the lyrics of a song are doctrinally
correct.
Christ delivers us from the "slave market of sin and death". This clearly indicates again to us that multitudes of people
are redeemed during the Tribulation.
14:4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the
Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the
Lamb.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
They lived up to the law of supreme sacrifice and did not marry or enter into the defiling sexual abandonment of the
devil’s immoral life style that characterizes the Tribulation. There is nothing defiling about sex within marriage, but the
sexual practises of the evil people of the tribulation are the thing separated from here, and marriage is impossible given
their task through these seven years.
These were the first people saved after the Rapture of the Church. These people are set aside to God. They were unable
to marry because of the pressure of their ministry, and they accepted that sacrificial witness to enable them to do the
work required of them.
CELIBACY
APPLICATION
We must all show ourselves as true saints and set ourselves apart from sin, and separated to God. We must put God
first and look at everything from its eternal perspective.
This shows their total commitment to Christ in keeping with the principles of Matthew 5:31-34 and the words of Paul in 1
Corinthians 9:15-23.
As the "firstfruits" of the harvest of faith, they are both the first and the best of the crop. Firstfruits of the 144,000 clearly
indicates that there are many more converts to follow in the Tribulation.
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14:5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
In their mouth was no deceit or gossip. They have won the battle for the mind and the tongue, and that indicates their
total devotion to their task and preparation to face the pressures of their lives through this period.
These people remained in fellowship during their ministry. “Before the throne of God” is not found in the original because
it is understood; all of us live “before the throne of God”, in direct and immediate fellowship with our God.
“No lies” include a lack of theological lies or false doctrines. 1 John 2:22.
These evangelists will be completely motivated by the love of Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:14.
APPLICATION
A person who is going to be effective needs to stay with the Word of God and remain in fellowship.
No one is perfect but it is important for people who wish to serve the Lord to keep a short account of any sin with God.
We should be completely motivated by the love of Christ
UNIVERSAL GRACE BEFORE JUDGMENT
In the Tribulation period unusual means will be used by God to bring men to faith in Jesus Christ.
There will be four major waves of evangelism as follows:
1.
The 144,000 Jewish evangelists. Revelation 7:1-8
2.
Gentile converts of the 144,000. Revelation 7:9-15
3.
The Two Witnesses - Moses and Elijah. Revelation 11:3-13
4.
Angelic evangelism. Revelation 14:6-7
14:6 And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that
dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
It is noted that there are still nations in the Tribulation. There are constructed in three ways:Kindred - people of the same race
Tongue - people with the same language
People - people in the same geographical area.
“Flying” means constantly flying about as it is the present active participle. “Preach” is in the aorist active infinitive - the
aorist tense combines the times in the tribulation at which preaching occurs and the infinitive means that it is God’s
purpose that everyone will hear it. There is constant evangelistic activity through this time; none are left without the truth
as the alternative to the satanic deceptions of the Anti-Christ.
This is the period where everyone in the world is preached to.
GOSPEL
CHRIST IN THE GOSPEL
APPLICATION
This angel circles the earth proclaiming the "eternal gospel."
The Lord Jesus Christ is the key to the "good news" of God.
The message does not change; man must change!
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This gospel has never changed. It is always faith in Jesus Christ as the means of eternal salvation. This is as unchanging
as Christ Himself (Hebrews 13:8).
14:7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and
worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have the challenge to the whole world to worship the Lord who is the Creator. The angel calls on men to "fear
God" because "the fear of the Lord (reverence) is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 1:7).
The three imperatives [fear, give glory, and worship] recognise the urgency of the hour! In those chaotic days the
primary truth that God is the Creator of all, the visible and the invisible, has been lost sight of. Colossians 1:16.
Man will have usurped the place of God: and the claim of the Creator to be worshipped by the creature will be all but
erased from the minds of men. Thus, the moment is opportune, for every true thought of the Creator has been almost
banished from the earth. All worship the beast except the godly remnant, which, appears to be a feeble minority. God
seeks our obedience to the truth, with many others or alone! The Lord’s opinion of us alone matters.
APPLICATION
Here again we see grace before judgment.
The good news is news of the impending judgment of the wicked which have persecuted the believers. Nahum 1:15
If they do not comply with the imperatives, or commands, they will be lost for all time. This is true today also!
14:8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all
nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Babylon the great” is first mentioned in Genesis 11 as the Tower of Babel. It was the centre of active rebellion against
the plan and purpose of God then, and this symbol remains the “code word” for the centre of active rebellion. It is not
necessarily just one city called “Babylon”, or even a city called “New Babylon”, but one that represents all that the old city
of that name represented.
The word wrath means heat as well as anger so the full meaning is the poisonous wine of her fornication.
The angel is followed by another angel who proclaims the fall of this centre of apostate world-religion, Babylon the Great.
More will be seen on this humanistic organisation and city in Revelation 17 and 18.
In this context, man is being offered through genuine evangelism the solution to empty dead religion, but it requires total
rejection of all that the satanic Anti-Christ system stands for, and a readiness to die for the truth.
APPLICATION
This is a political/financial/religious form of internationalism which is anti God, who set up a system of nations and
wanted man to remain separate after the Tower of Babel incident, so that evil’s control was limited.
God judges this internationalism and its political, religious and financial aspects. Internationalism is demonic in its
inception and results.
The extent of internationalism in the policy of your country determines biblically the level of decadence and evil’s control
in that country. Let us be aware of this and proclaim it. We cannot stop these events happening, but we can make the
policy of God’s Word known so that unbeliever sin these days remember our words and open their hearts to the truth.
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THE WARNING AGAINST BEING A DISCIPLE OF THE WORLD SYSTEM
14:9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image,
and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“If” is a first class condition, which means “if, and it is true”, people will worship the beast and obey his system.
Worshipping the beast is worshipping the Antichrist, and by deduction worshipping Satan. The animated Image/Idol is
the personification of the satanic religious system, and receiving the mark is accepting the world wide economic system
and the devil who is behind it.
A third angel presents the solemn warning of the doom awaiting those who worship the beast (Antichrist).
APPLICATION
When religion and state combine there is enslavement and if each person wishes to be “without judgment”, they must
reject the evils of the demonic system.
The Antichrist is, by the mid-point in the Tribulation period, in charge of the economy and religious system of the world.
Often those in great power such as Caesar, Kings, and Emperors think of themselves as God, and this man sums up all
that has ever been truly evil amongst men.
14:10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of
his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the
presence of the Lamb:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This describes the “Baptism of Fire” which will occur at the Second Advent. It is the judgment of all who have chosen to
support and worship evil rather than worship God.
“Poured without mixture” is in the perfect tense which shows it is always poured, passive voice, it is received on the basis
of human free will, and the participle indicates that it is a policy which never varies.
This verse also shows that these evil people receive torment in the future in the Lake of Fire as a result of choosing the
easy road now. There have always been only two roads; God’s and Satan’s. Matthew 7:7-14.
THE CUP
APPLICATION
The wrath of God was poured out on the Lord Jesus Christ and He was judged for our sins on the Cross.
Jesus Christ asked the Father to take away the cup from Him if it was possible, but nevertheless was willingly obedient to
the Father’s will, for he was focused upon what his suffering would achieve.
God loves the sinner but must judge the sin. He provided the only way to God through the death of Christ. John 3:16-18,
36, Acts 4:12.
If people reject the salvation that has been provided by the death of Christ they will be subject to the wrath of His
indignation or His anger, for they have despised his shed blood. John 3:16-36, 12:47-48, 14:23, 15:7-16.
When Christ came the first time He drank the cup, when He comes the second time the unbeliever will drink the cup.
Once the Lord is rejected and the mark of the Beast is received and the image is worshipped, that person's doom is
forever sealed.
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14:11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who
worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This shows three different aspects of this wicked last form of religion; actual worship of the Beast, worship of his image,
and receiving the mark of his name. The beast will have a scintillating character and a major marketing campaign to
deceive mankind into thinking that this action is “nothing”, just a formal procedure to declare their allegiance to the new
world order. The image gives the attraction of ritual whilst the mark gives the financial side of it. People are financially
secure and religiously stimulated, but it is evil and they pay for it with their life if they freely enter into this evil.
It is noted that the judgment on those who follow the beast is eternal and irrevocable.
A good example of resisting God’s offer and power is the Pharaoh of the Exodus. Exodus 3-14.
PHARAOH - GOD'S POWER
APPLICATION
These people will be in the Lake of Fire for “ever and ever” ( a phrase that means “until time ends”). This means a
thousand years in Torments, and then they are resurrected to be formally judged by Jesus Christ at the Great White
Throne Judgment and then cast into the Lake of Fire for eternity. Revelation 21:8.
Religion attracts on the basis of personality, ritual, and business opportunities. It is all temporary; only relationship with
God is eternal joy and real spirituality. Man selects temporal wealth/power or eternal joy with God.
These people have rejected the offer of God so often that they become unable to accept the offer of the Lord. They
pollute their own spirit to the point where there is no hope for them. There is a day when there is no hope.
14:12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of
Jesus.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Faith of Jesus” should be written as “faith in Jesus”.
“Keep” means to keep that which belongs to self, and these people see that the Holy Word of God belongs to them, and
they make it their own by applying its principles into the fabric of their daily life.
The saints are those of the Tribulation not the saints of the Church age which are examined below.
In this is found the "perseverance of the saints" The word means "endurance." These people are called to endure
terrible events, and they can do this only by resting upon the clear promises of God in the scripture. They know that this
period ends with the Lord’s coming and they must rest in this assurance.
As in Revelation 13:10, the believer in Christ endures the sufferings and tribulations of this world, knowing that eternal
life is ours.
God’s Word must be more real than our worries.
In this assurance we "keep" or guard our faith and assurance based on the commands to place our eternal future into the
hands of God by faith in Christ I Peter 1:35.
SAINTS
PROMISES OF GOD
APPLICATION
These people both learn the Word of God rapidly as well as using it in very difficult circumstances. - 1 Corinthians 10:13,
cf 1 Peter 5:6-11.
We need to put all our worries into the Lord’s hands and leave the timing of our deliverance and the means of it to Him.
“Vengeance is mine, I will repay says the Lord”. Hebrews 10:29-31, 12:27-29.
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14:13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from
henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Write” is in the aorist active imperative. John is instructed to write this encouragement to the Christians who face death
and these words apply for all time to all believers under pressure. God will deliver in and through all pressures. Our
death is precious in the sight of our God. Psalms 68:20, 116:15, Jeremiah 15:1, 24:4-7.
Blessed” - inner happiness for those who are dying as believers. There is peace of mind in the midst of suffering for all
who fix their eyes upon Jesus. Psalms 57:7, 112:7.
“Die” is a present active participle which means that they will not die suddenly. If it was quick it would be an aorist tense.
This may mean many will be tortured for their faith and die after some terrible time of suffering. They win eternal rewards
for every moment suffered, and they stand with the great martyrs of the past. Hebrews 11:32-40.
The contrast of eternal destiny of the saved versus the unsaved is seen in the "no rest forever" of verse 11 and the "rest"
of verse. 13. cf Matthew 11:28. Remember, these new believers have all accepted the Lord after the Church has gone.
This rest of eternal joy and blessing is set against the perpetual anguish and agitation of soul for those who will not
receive the gift of eternal life Isaiah 57:20-21. The believers suffer for a time, but are blessed forever; the unbelievers
enjoy pleasures for a moment and damnation eternally.
APPLICATION
This is a special promise to the martyrs of the later years of the Great Tribulation. The people who die here do so slowly,
probably with torture, but with great assurance of eternal rewards that are abundantly surpassing their pain and anguish.
Our problems are in the Lord’s hands and we should leave them there as He says come unto me all ye that labour and I
will give you rest. 1Peter 5:7.
A person rests if they have pressure but no problems. In him we have no problems, for he has taken them all unto
himself. Romans 8:28. We are tremendous witnesses if we do this.
These righteous who die in the Lord do not suffer any torment or punishment after they die.
THE FOURTH ANGEL AND JUDGMENT
14:14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on
his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The sharp sickle expresses judgment - Joel 3:13.
Christ is seen here as the "Son of Man," a title used often in the Gospel of Luke to show His condescension in becoming
one with us so as to purchase men from the penalty and slave market of sin. cf. Hebrews 2:14-18.
He wears the Crown of Victory, a stephanos crown, which shows the exaltation that followed the Cross. Philippians 2:511. He is truly the victor and Satan’s people have limited time to deceive themselves in.
The cloud may well be a true cloud here rather than a group of witnesses in white in attendance with the Lord as he is
said to sit upon the cloud in following verses.
APPLICATION
God is going to mow down invading armies at the end of the Tribulation – He will act with great and terrible outrage at
their evils and their blasphemous actions and words through these years. He will be absolutely just in all he does.
If the Lord Jesus Christ is not your Saviour He will be your judge. There is no fence sitting possible regarding the Lord.
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14:15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in
thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 14:16 And he that
sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The reaping comes from out of the throne room of God, from the heart of the purposes of God. The judgment of
mankind begins with the reaping of what men have sown through these years; either for blessing or judgment.
The word "ripe" means "ready to wither". The Lord waits until the very last minute before acting to judge the earth
leaving maximum time for mankind to repent.
In verses 15-18 two figures are used, the harvest (verse 14-16), and the vine (verses 17-·19).
The harvest is said to be ripe (verse. 18). The two Greek words are different however.
The ripe harvest in this verse is literally a dried or withered harvest; it is almost over-ripe. (cf. Matthew 21:19-20; John
15:6).
The grapes of the vine are also said to be ripe in verse 18, but the Greek word is “akmazo” which means to bloom or
arrive at complete maturity.
Here at last is the culmination of the history in the greatest judgment since the flood of Noah and this represents the end
of the post flood civilisation.
CIVILISATIONS
APPLICATION
The command to "reap" is “therizo” which speaks of the ingathering of the harvest.
If Christ did not return at the exact moment, no believers would survive the terrible calamities of the Tribulation (Matthew
24:22).
In other words, the unbelieving inhabitants of the earth are withered, lifeless, and fully ready for judgment.
God is not willing that any should perish and waits until the last minute to judge so none can ever say they didn’t have
enough time or opportunity. 2 Peter 3:9
However there is a time when all the work has been done to reach the unbelievers, and time has run out.
When that occurs the harvest will be reaped; the good will enter God’s rest, the evil God’s judgment.
14:17 And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. 14:18 And
another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the
sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes
are fully ripe.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
God the Father sends forth another angel ready to reap the armies that surround Jerusalem. The devil has deceived his
followers, including the Anti-Christ and the false Prophet into thinking that they can stand up against the angels of God,
but they cannot and do not; they are scythed down like over ripe grain.
The Grapes of Wrath. In these verses the sickle and fire speak of a gleaning of judgment. (cf. Revelation 6:9, 8:3).
The altar speaks of the Cross of Christ, which now becomes the basis for judging those who receive Him not. The Angel
of fire is involved because this is the "baptism of fire" spoken of in Matthew 3:10-12.
The word ''ripe" is Akmazo, “fully ripe”. The vine here is not the true vine which is Christ in John 15, but rather the false
vine of apostasy as in Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:8.
The clusters of the vine of rebellion and unbelief are cast "into the great winepress of the wrath of God." This is revealed
in Revelation 16:16 to be the place called "Armageddon," the great level valley of Megiddo, or Plain of Esdraelon.
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APPLICATION
God protects His own and will in His own time judge and destroy the unbelievers who have tormented and persecuted
them.
There is a true tabernacle/temple in heaven, a copy of which was given to the children of Israel in the wilderness, and to
David and Solomon for building.
The people who are to be judged are overdue for judgment. They have had every opportunity to be saved but they have
refused and so they will be righteously judged.
This is the vine of the earth and stands in contrast: to Christ, the true vine. John 15:1.
The picture here is that all the false religion of man is fully ripe and ready for harvest.
Thus, the harvest is ready because man in his own efforts apart from the life of God has fully developed an apostate
religious system. They prefer the lies they have followed rather than the truth of God.
14:19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the
great winepress of the wrath of God. 14:20 And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out
of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we see the actual reaping that occurs.
The word for gather, trugao, is derived from the word trugo, which means ripe fruit, to collect the vintage.
Those suffering the reaping are cast into the winepress of the wrath of God.
The winepress is trodden out outside Jerusalem.
It is of interest that many of the ancients believed that Israel was sixteen hundred stadia or furlongs long.
A stadia was one tenth of an English mile and one eighth of a Roman mile.
A parallel passage is given in Isaiah 63:3, “I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with
me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my
garments, and I will stain all my raiment.”
The area covered is approximately 200 miles, and specifies that the area within a 200 mile radius from Jerusalem will be
the centre of the final carnage where the armies of the world who have gathered to annihilate the Jews will themselves
be annihilated. cf, Revelation 19:19.
They will be gathered there at the time when our Lord returns to earth as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. (Zechariah
14:1ff, Revelation. 19:16).
APPLICATION
God’s anger against such evil and vicious rebellion is intense for these rebels have murdered his people.
There will be terrible suffering in the winepress of God for all who have caused such intense suffering to the believers.
This is slaughter on a massive scale with blood running over the land for 200 kilometres.
We are told the blood of this slaughter will spatter as high as a metre and an half deep for a distance of two hundred
miles.
Joel 3:9-17 “Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; Prepare war, wake up the mighty men, let all the men of war draw
near; let them come up:10. Beat your ploughshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears: let the weak say, I
am strong. 11 Assemble yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather yourselves together round about: thither
cause thy mighty ones to come down, O LORD. 12 Let the heathen be wakened, and come up to the valley of
Jehoshaphat: for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about. 13 Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come,
get you down; for the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great. 14 Multitudes, multitudes in the valley
of decision: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision. 15 The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and
the stars shall withdraw their shining. 16 The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and
the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of
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Israel. 17 So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain: then shall Jerusalem be
holy, and there shall no strangers pass through her any more.”
CONCLUSION
This passage should produce in every Christian a great sense of both thanksgiving for the gift of eternal life in Christ as
well as great urgency in proclaiming the "eternal gospel" to those around us who are without Christ, without hope, and
without eternal life.
NOTES
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
INTRODUCTION
In this brief chapter the final seven judgments, called the "seven plagues," are set in contrast to the victorious company
of tribulation martyrs.
The connection appears to be that the intensity of God's final wrath is based in direct relationship to the persecution of
His Saints. This agrees with Revelation 18:20. God's judgment is in behalf of His people who have suffered.
In many of the Jewish writings a section will start and end at the same point putting the section in parenthesis. This is
called inclusion and is what happens in this chapter.
This chapter is the introduction to chapter 16 which deals with the pouring out of the seven bowls of wrath. In Matthew
26:49 the goblet is said to contain the sins of the world.
In this passage the Lord Jesus Christ became sin for us - 2 Corinthians 5:21
UNLIMITED ATONEMENT
15:1 And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in
them is filled up the wrath of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Last “eschatos” from which we get the word eschatology the study of end timesThe word “teleo” tells us that this ends the wrath of God. Filled up should be translated “finished”.
There are three signs in the last half of the Revelation,
[a] The sign of the woman. Revelation 12:1
[b] The second sign, the sign of the Dragon. Revelation 12:3,
[c] The third sign the seven angels of judgment. Revelation 15:1
“Plege” here means judgment. It means the blow of a whip, or smack of a rod, indicating discipline.
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APPLICATION
God’s wrath is poured out fully and completely in these judgments in exactly the justice and equity that is appropriate.
The number seven is particularly appropriate here indicating completeness. Genesis 2:2
The purpose of Chapters 12 through 15 is to show that history is working according to God's plan. In this plan the
apparent defeat of the Cross and triumph of evil will be swallowed up in the victory of the second advent of Christ.
15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast,
and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the
harps of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“It were” is not in the original; John just describes what he “sees” as well as he can. This can be compared with the sea
of glass in Revelation 4:6, but here it is coloured by fire or judgment.
In the former verse it is the church at peace in heaven. This passage is the tribulational saints in the presence of God
with the fire representing extreme pressure.
The phrase “those who have got the victory”, is a present active participle. These people were victorious in their
Tribulational Christian life. They were consistent and so had inner happiness even in the midst of pressures unto death
itself. They did not allow death or any other pressure to turn them against the Lord.
Victory is in four areas:[a]
Victory over personality. The Antichrist is scintillating in personality but this did not lead these people astray. To
the believer who is victorious the truth of the Scriptures is greater than any person’s personality.
[b]
Victory over religious pressure and the Anti-Christ’s image. Occupation with Christ allows people to resist this
pressure.
[c]
Victory over his mark which is the economic system. There is tremendous economic pressure as indicated in
Revelation 13:16-18.
[d]
Victory over the number of his name which is public opinion pressure
The fire reminds us of the fire that proceeds from God’s throne in Daniel 7:9-10, which here is combined with the sea in
Revelation 4:6. The fire is both of judgment for the lost, and purification for the saints.
APPLICATION
While the saints suffered martyrdom they won eternal rewards and great status in the spiritual realm.
The Beast must have thought he had won because of the death of his opponents, but they win because Christ has
conquered death. His victims will never die, and will be blessed forever, but he will die and be punished forever.
These people are delivered through fire, not out of it.
There is no guarantee that we will not have great testing in our Christian life. We need to keep our eyes on the Lord and
the distant vision. Philippians 1:21. God’s Word must always be more real to us than the pressures around us.
15:3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and
marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These people are having a good time because they are singing spontaneously. Two songs are favourite, the songs of
Moses and the Lamb.
The songs of Moses are given in Exodus 15, Deuteronomy 31:19, 21-22, 29 and Deuteronomy chapter 32:1-43. These
are songs of grace to give glory to the faithfulness of God.
They sing about the faithfulness of God while they were on earth facing such great trials and troubles. He was faithful to
them under the greatest pressure in human history.
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The song was sung by Moses and the children of Israel on their occasion of their triumph over Egypt.
Israel sings this great song of victory on the eastern bank of the sea, the first song recorded in Scripture.
It has its spiritual counterpart in the victories over the Beast. He is the enslaver of God’s saints, but he is smitten in a
series of plagues, while they are preserved from the malice of the Beast. They are saved and triumphant, and singing the
song of Moses on a sea of glass that reflects the glory of their victory. The last song recorded in Scripture is their song.
The song of the Lamb is seen in verses 3b – 4. It is the second half of Moses Song, for he also sang of the lamb. It is
the song that reflects God’s gracious Plan for mankind’s salvation, and the presence of so many tribulational saints in
heaven is a testimony of the greatest of the plan that manifests God’s love, grace, and mercy.
There is no problem in the world that is not solvable by the Lord’s plan. There is no reason for men and women not to be
in heaven other than their determination not to be!
“Thy works” recognise that the works belong to God.
The king of the nations looks forward to the Millennium when he comes back to the earth.
He has the right to reign as he is totally omnipotent and sovereign.
THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD
DIVINE ESSENCE
APPLICATION
Moses’ song almost certainly refers to his song of praise after his people successfully crossed the sea where their
enemies were drowned - Exodus 15:1-18
Song of the lamb recalls redemption from the final plague. Revelation 5:6
The language here recalls Psalm 86:9-10.
God is faithful in all His "works" (Psalm. 92:5; 98:1, 111:2, 139:14), and in the "ways" of His character. (Amos 4:13;
Psalm. 145:17; Deuteronomy. 32:4; Jeremiah. 10:10).
15:4 Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and
worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Fear here means awe and is in the aorist passive subjunctive with a double negative. We all ought at all times to have a
healthy and holy “fear of the Lord”; this means a holy respect and awesomeness towards the Lord our God.
This “fear” deals with the believers total trust in Christ but the subjunctive mood indicates that not every one will get
there. All too many believers do not walk with the Lord closely enough to come to this place of trust and awe in the midst
of their troubles.
“Glorify thy name” is in the future tense. They are now exulting in the Lord now that they are in heaven.
Holy, holiness comes from a combination of righteousness and justice. Mature believers see this coming together in
their lives as God takes charge and guides them through all things.
APPLICATION
There is only one way to live powerfully in this life. John 14:6. All nations shall come and worship before the Lord.
This shows that God alone would be worshipped on the final day of judgment. Zechariah 14:9
The only fitting response is reverence and worship by which all honour is given to God as the Source and Author of all
good things.
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15:5 And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven was opened:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This gives the source of the seven bowl judgments.
It is from the temple of the tabernacle in heaven, it is from God Himself that these will come.
The temple in heaven is the original, of which the earthly Tabernacles are simply copies. The Tabernacle of Moses is
the example of what is in heaven, rather than the temples of Solomon and Zerubbabel, which were grander. The
Tabernacle speaks of Christ. The temple in heaven is the Millennial Temple and at the end it comes down to the earth
and settles on the realigned land that was once the hilly city of Jerusalem.
This tabernacle and the Lord’s presence within it is to show us that Christ is in heaven and is the only solution to the
problems of the earth.
THE TABERNACLE
APPLICATION
Here is seen the apparent combination of the tabernacle and the temples which all by their structure talk about the
person and work of Christ and the relationship of God with man.
It is a portrayal of God’s plan for man but also His righteousness.
15:6 And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen,
and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The temple is opened and this releases the seven plagues on the earth. These plagues are judgment, but also have
hope at their core for all who will respond to them in saving faith. They destroy evil men, but also protect the believers.
These judgments represent the last hope of man. If they do not respond to these and bow their knees to the Lord, they
will receive eternal judgment at the Great White Throne judgment. This is evangelism by disaster.
God never coerces or tampers with the free will of man, but the Lord strongly challenges man to face reality.
The angels are clothed in white linen which when observed at close quarters is not white, but more marvellous.
The word translated “white” which normally is the Greek word Leukos is Lampros in this case which would mean
magnificent or gorgeous, shining, clothing.
This represents the perfect judgment from God, for it judges and challenges to salvation. These last unsaved men upon
the earth have no excuses before the Lord. There is grace here; and it is amazing grace, given the previous actions of
these men.
Ancient Jewish texts often portray angels clothed in white linen but also portray priests in this manner.
John therefore portrays these angels as servants of the heavenly temple.
The golden girdle is a belt to which swords and the like were attached.
These are high ranking angels who are superior to the angels who opposed them in Revelation 16.
APPLICATION
Here the Temple is the place where the plagues of judgment, rather than grace and salvation, emanate, and yet there is
salvation here and grace abounding to men who deserve only judgment, but the days of grace and mercy are coming to
an end now.
The throne of mercy has become the throne of judgment against those who persistently ignore God’s ways. It is
staggering to see how much grace and mercy is given in this book to the men who have consistently worked such evil.
2 Peter 3:9. “9. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
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15:7 And one of the four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of God, who
liveth for ever and ever. 15:8 And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power;
and no man was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we again see the four archangels classified as four beasts (or living creatures).
These are higher than the seven angels and one of them hands the judgments to the seven angels.
Here we have the fact that God is eternal. The judgment that the unbelievers have is therefore eternal.
The imperfect tense of Dunamai shows again the absolute lack of ability of man entering into the Temple in his own
power; humility is the only path to acceptance with God.
It should be noted that there are two words translated “fill” in this chapter; “teleo” which means to end in verse 1, and
“genizo” in this verse which means to load or fill.
It is also of interest that “teleo” is translated “fulfilled” in this verse and “fill” in verse 1.
The temple filling with the glory recalls the dedication of the earthly temple in earlier times. Exodus 40:34-5, 1 Kings 8:1011, cf, Ezekiel 10:3-4, for its withdrawal. The earthly tabernacle and temple were for a time indwelt by the very presence
of God, but that presence left due to the persistent sinfulness of men. The temple of heaven is the permanent place
where the glory dwells and the Millennial Temple will also be that place for 1000 years where the Lord dwells in glory.
The temple is filled with the Shekinah glory of God.
SHEKINAH GLORY
APPLICATION
Angel priests were handed seven bowls of holy outrage to pour out on the unbelievers of the earth.
The Holy sanctuary is now closed until the judgements have been completed.
The day of grace is over. Sadly intercession is now of no avail. Neither incense nor blood will be able to arrest the storm
of judgment. The last hope for mankind to repent and be saved is past, for once these judgments are poured the time of
grace is over and mercy is no more. The fate of persistently unrepentant mankind is now sealed forever.
Now the temple is "filled with smoke", as God's anger burns, and none could enter the temple. (cf: Exodus. 40:34-35; 1
Kings. 8:10-11; 1 Timothy. 6:15-16). We should never forget that "our God is a consuming fire" (Hebrews. 10:27, 31,
12:29).
CONCLUSION
Some may question as to why God does this, and yet we have seen nearly seven years of evil being done by these
people before this judgment falls upon them. The miracle here is that there is still hope for some of these people right
until the last judgments are poured out. These evil people have had seven years of warning, but for the persistently
foolish and evil their time is up.
Our problem remains that we have so little concept of the holiness of God, and the depravity of man. When we consider
the previous actions of the people who are judged here we ought not to be in any doubts about the grace of God, or the
need to finally and fully judge these evil people.
These prophecies are given to us that we might come to realise something of God’s hatred for sin, God’s judgment on
persistently unrepentant sinners and upon the site of man’s sin.
NOTES
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CHAPTER SIXTEEN
INTRODUCTION
God speaks directly to man in two ways: through Scripture and through suffering. The more hardened man becomes to
Scripture, the more God must speak through suffering. Hebrews 3:7-19.
Unlike the previous series of judgments of the trumpets and seals, each of which had a break between the sixth and
seventh judgments, the seven plagues of the bowls are poured out without interruption and apparently quite rapidly. All
of the angels receive their orders to go at the same time, which would indicate that these judgments follow each other in
quick succession, although it is possibly over a few months as the Exodus was – more about this below.
The outpouring of the bowls evidently come at the close of the period, and as they occupy a brief span of time they
cannot be spread over the last three and one half years of the tribulation period. The plagues of the Exodus give us a
clue to the timing of these last judgments. The Exodus plagues occur over a period of three to six months, and so these
“cups” here may be poured out on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis right at the end of the Tribulation period.
Their universal impact amongst the unsaved would stop the armies besieging Israel in their tracks and halt the execution
of all Satan’s plans. They are a last appeal to unsaved mankind, and the sign of the beginning of final judgment, but they
also act as a major distraction for Anti-Christ and his forces and hinder their prosecution of the persecution of the saints.
They are also incredible encouragement to believers, for once they start they can know that there are only a few months
to run before the Lord’s physical return. They are encouragement to keep fighting the enemy.
The vial, cup, or bowl judgments set out in this chapter represents evangelism by extreme pressure, and protection of the
Lord over his own. People have heard the message of the Gospel in various ways, now they must decide whether they
will accept it or not. Often people will not consider the Lord and His claim on their lives unless they are focused by great
pressure, and even by a slow death! Even so there are millions who will never consider the Lord, because they will not
give Him time, and so they are lost forever.
The book of Revelation outlines the "birth pangs" of the coming Messianic Age that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 24:18,
and although these birth pangs lead to world crisis, they are necessary for the redemption of both mankind and natural
creation. Romans 8:18-23. To restore the world all evil must be eliminated from it.
The Second Advent of Christ is the end of the line for all unbelievers who have worked their evils in the Tribulation.
Here we have the crescendo of judgment on the earth, the last opportunity for man to know his helplessness and look to
God as the only solution to his problems.
FIRST CUP: LOSS OF HEALTH VERSES. 1-2
16:1 And I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour out the
vials of the wrath of God upon the earth. 16:2 And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and
there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them which
worshipped his image.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have the beginning of the final series of horrible judgments of the Tribulation upon those who have rejected the
truth about Jesus, but worshipped the lies of the beast. Already the seven seals and seven trumpets have rocked the
world in Divine judgment, and now these cups complete the cycle of self induced misery for those who will not accept
Christ as their Lord, and prefer Satan as their lord. These people have opted for the devil’s program of wealth, health
and lust centred happiness, and each of these is stripped away by God’s judgments.
The command comes from the temple (cf. Revelation 15:5-8). The seven angels of judgment are commanded to pour out
seven cups or vials of the wrath of God. The word for "pour out" is ‘ekcheo’, which means to gush out.
The demand for judgment on the apostate world proceeds not from the throne, but from the centre of the "temple" that is,
the Holy of Holies. God's wrath burns fiercely, and its strength is derived from what His holy nature demands. Isaiah 1:47, 15-20, 6:9-13. This helps to explain why these judgments fall only upon those who worship the beast. They chose
Antichrist instead of Christ (Revelation 13:8). They refuse the angel’s message of repentance, and so select judgment for
themselves.
The angels' warning is clear. "If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives a mark on his forehead or upon
his hand, he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is mixed in full strength, in the cup of His anger; and he
will be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb."
[Revelation. 14:9-10).
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So this judgment is the result/consequence of the decision of men to reject Christ. It is selective and surgical in its
impact. There is no escape for the evil people who hate God and have persecuted his people through the Tribulation
period. Isaiah 51:17-20, Jeremiah 5:1-6, 14:12-18, 15:1-3, Amos 5:15-20. Each of these judgments will hinder these evil
people from being able to follow the orders of the beast and hurt any more of God’s people. They are protective of God’s
people.
The first vial is loss of health and affects those who have received the mark of the Beast or worshipped his image. It
appears to be a violent and rapidly spreading form of skin cancer that starts around the site of the inserted chip, or tattoo,
with the mark of the beast within it. This will disable many of Satan’s troops in their final attacks upon the Jewish and
Arab believers in the last days.
"Noisome" means foul smelling, and "grievous" and it is the word for cancerous. The same word for "sore" occurs in the
Greek Septuagint translation of the Old Testament. in Job 2:7, and in the plague of Exodus 9:8-11. Like the false
prophets and miracle workers of Egypt, the beast and his servants claim to be able to heal all things that God causes,
but they are powerless here, just as Satan’s servants were powerless against Moses, although they could counterfeit
some of his miracles on a smaller scale.
God warned of this curse in Deuteronomy. 28:27,35. Only the people in the Kingdom of Antichrist are affected by this
plague, the believing remnant being exempt. Apparently the beast cannot heal them, for they are still cursing God for
these ulcers after the fifth bowl has been poured out. Revelation 16:7.
It is to be noticed that the beast is in power and his image has been set up when this first bowl judgment occurs. It is
clear therefore that this series of judgments is related to the close of the last three and one-half year period of the
tribulation period.
APPLICATION
The phrase to, “pour out “, refers to the fullness of divine wrath, each vessel literally overflows (cf, Revelation 15:8), and
is to be poured out completely till all are emptied.
The scene of these plagues is "the earth”, thus the course of the judgments takes on a wider sweep than the judgments
that have been mentioned previously, with all places upon the earth being visited, and all unbelievers who are actively
worshipping Satan, being targeted for individual and very personal judgment.
God is a God of wrath as well as a God of love.
There are many people who have negative attitudes towards the Lord, and it is only under tremendous pressure that they
actually even will consider the claims of Christ on their life. These people at this time however have already gone too far,
and this judgment is to illustrate that, and also demonstrate that no matter what the punishment, these people will cling to
Satan, rather than turn to God. Like Pharaoh of the Exodus, they harden their hearts against the truth more and more.
In this particular case however these people are set as an example of a fierce negative attitude towards God, as we
know from chapter 14, that anyone who accepts the mark of the beast is lost forever. When you come under tremendous
pressure you often realise that those things that you have relied on are temporary and you concentrate on the Lord, but
these people cling to their paganism. The challenge is still in grace and salvation is still possible if they will bow their
knee, but they are hardened in their sins and so the vials become further evidence for their final judgment.
There has been recent experimentation on the effect of inserting microchips in people for medical reasons. In order that
they work efficiently the chip should be placed so as to obtain the most efficient temperature change. Two places were
found, on the forehead, and on the back of the hand. cf Revelation 13:16-18.
When asked what would happen if there was a “leakage” a biologist said that a severe sore would occur. It may be that
the increased solar radiation of this last period of the Tribulation will trigger the chip to leak. Revelation 16:8-9.
THE CUP OF WRATH
SEVEN JUDGMENTS - BOWL
PROPHECY - MORAL DECLINE
Scripture - 2 Timothy 3:1-4 (66 AD): 'This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be
lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without
natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady,
high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.
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SECOND CUP: LOSS OF MARINE FOOD
VERSE 3
16:3 And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and
every living soul died in the sea.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The second goblet is loss of all access to marine food, as it is a judgment on the sea, and all sea life is killed. Previous
judgments had caused a third of the sea life to be killed, but this is total. Many of the judgments of Revelation 8 are
similar to Revelation 16 but not as severe.
"The sea" here speaks of the Mediterranean Sea which will supply much of the food sources of the Revived Roman
Empire. Like the plague in Egypt Exodus 7:17-21, the water becomes "as blood" causing the death of all living sea
creatures. This may be a more extensive judgment of all oceans, but it is temporary, as the Lord restores the oceans of
the world during the Millennium.
The seas will wallow in blood. Under the second trumpet one-third of the sea creatures died, Revelation 8:9, now the
destruction is complete. The stench and disease that this will cause along the shores of the seas of the earth are
unimaginable. In New Zealand we have had a brief foretaste of this with an “algal bloom” in various places which killed
large numbers of fish and sea creatures, washing their decaying stinking bodies up on the beach and causing respiratory
disease for people close by. The sea had a reddish tinge from the algae, like blood. With rises in sea temperatures in
many places these algal blooms have occurred in many places with literally “stinking” results.
APPLICATION
God opens up a full judgment in a final attempt to bring unbelievers face to face with the choice between death and the
gospel.
Many people rely on the sea for their food supplies, and therefore this means starvation, or a severe shortage of food for
those people. Japan is an example of this, with the Japanese having a high fish diet. Lack of physical food will alert them
to their spiritual problem and their coming doom.
Since the crops of earth have already been judged, this will destroy the last available resource for food. It should be
noted that the judgments are intensifying. First the loss of health, and now the last remaining food source is destroyed.
People ask why God allows suffering, and the answer places the full responsibility upon the shoulders of unrepentant
and rebellious mankind. God allows suffering to bring people to face the truth. Remember, the Lord is going to restore
the sea by his creative power for the Millennial period.
THIRD CUP: LOSS OF POTABLE DRINKING WATER VERSES 4-7
16:4 And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became blood.
16:5 And I heard the angel of the waters say, Thou art righteous, O Lord, which art, and wast, and shalt be,
because thou hast judged thus. 16:6 For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given
them blood to drink; for they are worthy. 16:7 And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God
Almighty, true and righteous are thy judgments.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The third plague follows the pattern of the third trumpet and affects the world’s fresh water supply so that it becomes like
blood and stinks in the hot sun. The world wide victims of this judgment will experience God’s law of retribution; that is,
they shed the blood of the saints and prophets (verse 6), so they must now drink water that is tainted like blood.
The third goblet is a judgment against all the world’s remaining open sources of fresh water. The water became no
longer drinkable world wide. The world wide volcanism may cause this sort of “plague” world wide as sulphuric acid in
the volcanic ash from eruptions will when descending onto fresh water pollute the water and make it tainted and
poisonous. The high iron content of ash and stellar dust from meteor showers will also taint water and turn it red.
Several significant world wide atmospheric events are in view here.
Verse 5
The "angel of the waters" is not an ambiguous expression, as the book of Revelation assigns a variety
of ministries to angels (cf. Revelation 1:1: 2:3; 5:2: 7:1; 8:16 ff).
The angel of the waters delivers the divine judgment upon the sphere where he presides. Here there is an angel who is
in charge of protecting the waters of life and has guarded them and protected mankind till this point from Satan’s
excesses. At this point that divine protective shield is lifted.
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“Shall be” is not found in the original. “Eimi” is in the present tense which means that God is always righteous as “eimi”
means absolute status quo. This means that this keeps on remaining the status. This shows that God is unchanging.
“Which art” means who keeps on being, present active participle of “eimi” this refers to the God man Jesus Christ.
“Which wast” refers to the fact that Christ is eternal God. Once again it is seen that when God's kindness and grace are
rejected, unbelieving mankind stores up wrath for himself (Romans 2:4). Grace does have a limited time for its operation;
when it is fully and finally rejected, judgment falls.
Verse 6
The blood letting during the Great Tribulation, as saints are slaughtered by the thousands, is without
parallel in the history of the human race. Christ Himself declares it will be a time of trouble without precedent. Matthew
24:21. It should be noted that the blood is not of “Christians and Preachers”, but saints and prophets. The Prophets were
the communicators of the Scriptures in the Jewish age so this again is shown as part of the Jewish not the Church age
which terminated at the Rapture.
Verse 7
Another angel from the altar echoes the refrain of this righteous judgment in verse 7. It would appear
that the brazen altar is referred to here (cf. Revelation 6:9), the altar of consuming judgment rather than the golden altar
of incense where the prayers of the saints are received.
The lives of God's saints and witnesses had been sacrificed on the altar and their souls after death are heard underneath
it crying to God for vengeance on their bloodthirsty persecutors. They are right to ask for justice upon those who showed
none, and who have refused to repent.
APPLICATION
What could be worse than losing one's health, compounded by loss of food? The next step is the loss of drinking water.
Now the rivers and springs of fresh water become undrinkable like blood.
How few of us today ever think of thanking God for drinking water. Yet our world has only a limited supply of fresh water
and that amount is already dwindling.
Man’s life is sustained because of the water. If Satan could remove the drinking water from the world he could eliminate
mankind. God however provides protection over the water supply by means of an endowed angel until this point.
It is absolutely impossible for God to sin or to be unfair or make mistakes. With this judgment prophetically spelled out
here, the believers of the Great Tribulation period have plenty of time to prepare supplies of bottled and canned water to
drink when this occurs. Prophetic truth is protective for those who believe God’s Word and act upon it.
The angel whose job it is to protect the water supply says to the Lord that, “He is Righteous and His judgments are just”.
There are seven principles from this statement:[a] The angel expresses that the Lord is Righteous and therefore this judgment is an expression of the fairness
of God
[b] Mankind is prone to criticise God for His judgment because he does not have all the facts. Generally the
more critical people are, the less facts they know.
[c] Man minimises sin and disobedience to the plan of God.
[d] Mankind fails to see sin as a failure to measure up to the character of God.
[e] The true character of sin can only be seen by the Cross and what it cost the Father and the Son. The Father
had to judge the one whom He had loved in all eternity past.
[f] For those who reject Christ and accept religion the essence of God must express itself.
[g] The love of God is rejected when Christ is rejected, the alternative is judgment.
Even as the saints are worthy of rest and reward, so the wicked are worthy of divine chastening and judgment.
The oppressors are worthy of this as they have earned the judgment of God by their actions.
God’s punishment always fits the crime. The oppressors are given blood like water to drink. In grace God has warned
his people of this catastrophe coming at the end of the Tribulation, so that the godly people can prepare by laying in at
least a year’s water supply for their last months of fighting before the Lord’s Second Advent.
When you are under pressure you should not respond in anger, you should leave it with the Lord in faith. Romans 12:1920, Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7. This pressure situation is not one for the believers, for they have believed in the coming
judgments and prepared their sealed water supplies for the last six plus months of the Great Tribulation.
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God hears the cry of mankind, and after nearly two thousand years of grace being offered since the Cross, the long
patience of our God has now come to an end.
WHY DOES GOD JUDGE ?
FOURTH CUP: WEATHER CATASTROPHE
VERSES 8-9
16:8 And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch men with
fire. 16:9 And men were scorched with great heat, and blasphemed the name of God, which hath power over
these plagues: and they repented not to give him glory.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The fourth judgment affects the sun so that "power was given unto him" to scorch men.
The power of the sun is increased to such an intense degree that mankind is burnt by its radiation/heat.
The word “power” is not in this verse.
The word “him” should be “it”.
The word scorched is in the aorist tense showing this was for a short time only. It is also in the infinitive mood meaning
God has a purpose or an end in view. This end is given as repentance.
This infinitive matches another in verse 9, "to give Him glory." However this does not oppose the teachings of either
Revelation 14:9-10 or 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12, both of which teach that those who worship Antichrist will never be
saved.
It is not that hot that they cannot think. They express their free will and blaspheme the name of God.
“Metanoeo” translated repent means a change in mind from “meta”, to change and “noeo” meaning mind.
APPLICATION
The sun exists and shines by God's command and He can make it scorch and torture, as well as cheer and warm; Here
belongs the fulfilment of Isaiah 24:6.
We are now beginning to learn something of the extent of the sun's effects on our weather patterns. This however will be
the worst heat wave the world has ever known. Sun spots and solar storms can direct the course of weather. Here the
sun is intensified so as to "scorch" men with great heat.
This both shows that salvation was available and offered to them, and also that they are under "strong delusion" for no
other reason than that they would not believe. God's offer of salvation is not withheld simply because men will not accept
it.
Instead of turning to God and pleading for mercy, men blaspheme His name and do not repent (verse 9). The wishful
thinking of some that men would repent if they only knew the power and righteous judgment of God is shattered by this
verse. The hardness of the human heart and the incorrigible corruptness of the will of man are demonstrated thoroughly.
It must be remembered that the outpouring of the wrath of God in these last days is for the purpose of bringing men to
repentance. This is especially true in the preparation of Israel for the kingdom to be in situated at the return of the
Messiah in fulfilment of Israel's covenants, the divine purpose however, will include the whole population of the inhabited
world.
Had there been godly repentance the storm of divine wrath might have been stopped for God "had authority over these
plagues", there was produced not repentance, but increased hardness of heart: not glory to God, but blasphemy of His
holy name. To the contrary, the offer of salvation and their rejection of it becomes the sole indictment for their judgment.
John 3:18-20; Revelation 14:7, 9-10.
The point made here is not that men could not, but were so self-hardened that they would not repent. A careful study of
Pharaoh in Exodus 4-12 along with Romans 1:18-32 shows that what we call "Judicial hardening" from God is nothing
more than this: that God "gives them over" to their own desires. Men are hardened into their own desires, not made
different than their desires.
Every judgment of grace and truth is removed that they might "bring swift destruction on themselves." (2 Peter 2:1).
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Blasphemy only occurs if the truth is known and rejected so that even under tremendous pressure these people refused
to change their mind. Believers in their places of hiding are either protected, or are able to take precautions that keep
them safe through this time, for they are warned by this passage 1900+ years before the events unfold in time.
FIFTH CUP: SPIRITUAL DARKNESS VERSES 10-11
16:10 And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of darkness;
and they gnawed their tongues for pain, 16:11 And blasphemed the God of heaven because of their pains and
their sores, and repented not of their deeds.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The fifth plague is on the throne of the beast. The plague beings darkness to the seat of his government. Undoubtedly
this slows up his attempt to force all men to worship him or be killed, thus, the beast will not have enough time to be able
to enforce his edict universally. Each of these plagues hinders and halts his exercise of power and so protects the saints.
The beast himself with his partner the false prophet is reserved for a terrible doom, Revelation 19:20, but until then the
civil and political power of the earth established by Satan is in its strength or "throne" made to feel the stroke of divine
judgment. This judgment is therefore poured out on the personal kingdom and administration of the Beast
The word “was” is “ginomai” which means to become something that it was not before. The kingdom of the beast became
dark. This may be related to the extensive volcanism that is indicated in the other “vials”, as an ash layer will produce
darkness. It will stop the sun’s burning rays, but then create darkness and a sudden drop in temperature. The “gnawing”
and choking out of their words may indicate volcanic ash in the atmosphere.
“Darkness” is translated as if it was a noun, but it is a verb. It is in the perfect tense which shows that the darkness has
permanent ramifications. Darkness is also in the middle voice shows that this is self-induced. It is the result of their evil.
“Gnawed” is in the imperfect tense which means that they kept on gnawing. The reaction of the recipients of these
judgments is given. Yet while they gnaw their tongues and choke out accusations against God, "they did not repent." It is
clear why Scripture gives the verdict "they are without excuse." Romans. 1:20, 21.
APPLICATION
The darkness, with the other judgments, has a major effect on the Armageddon Military campaign. It grinds to a halt and
gives the Jewish defenders in the land major respite from fighting and allows them to rebuild defences. If it is an ash
cloud causing this situation it will also clog all the machinery of war and require the armies to turn off all equipment and
clean everything before starting any engines again, which with the skin sores and water problems disables their army.
They will not have the time to re-gather strength before the Lord blasts them from the face of the earth. They are
blaspheming until the day they are swept away. These plagues protect the believers fighting the enemy.
Because the kingdom of darkness is Satan's domain (Colossians 1:13), the light of truth is rejected and men are
spiritually blinded (2 Corinthians 4:4). Now we have Divinely imposed darkness to mirror their spiritual condition.
His kingdom “was full of darkness". This is an allusion not only to a physical darkness but also to a moral one. It is
difficult to realise in any conceivable degree the horror of such a state, or the appropriateness of it for the servants of
Satan. Spiritual darkness is painful. It is a preview of hell once again, when unrepentant mankind suffers the right and
just consequences of their own decisions, they "blaspheme" or malign the very God who paid to redeem them from these
sorrows. These people have no excuse for their persistence in their evil rebellion against the truth of God’s Grace, Mercy
and love for them.
That darkness is here foreshadowed with its accompanying consequences, "They gnawed their tongues with distress".
This is the only expression of the kind that is found in the Scriptures, and it indicates the most intense and excruciating
agony. There is a spiritual darkness which results from personal decisions to reject the Light. The inevitable result of
arrogant human claims to enlightenment without Christ is "their foolish heart was darkened." Romans 1:21.
The result of this plague will be that those involved will blaspheme the "God of Heaven". Notice should be taken there is
an advance in an evil sense in that the Name of God verse 9 has here changed to God Himself. The very knowledge
that God is in Heaven, and that he is the author and source of their misery, so justly deserved, does not cause them to
bow in repentance. Again the Scriptures plainly refute the notion that wicked men will quickly repent when faced with
catastrophic warnings of judgment.
The unbelievers blaspheme the Lord because of the judgments. They do not change their attitude.
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SIXTH CUP: THE FINAL BATTLE - ARMAGEDDON VERSES 12-16
The world's armies are led to centre their military campaign around the "Valley of the tell of Megiddo", Armageddon, for
the final battle of the Tribulation. It is at this point that Jesus Christ will return in power and glory as pictured in Zechariah
12:10-11; Revelation 19:11-16.
But even in the midst of this terrible scene, we have the assurance of blessing to the believer. To know Christ is to be
spiritually awake, Ephesians 5:14, and the walk of faith surrounds us with the garments of righteousness. Revelation 3:4.
"He who believes in Him (Christ) shall not be ashamed". Romans 9:33, 10:l1.
16:12 And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried
up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared. 16:13 And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs
come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false
prophet. 16:14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth
and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. 16:15 Behold, I come as a
thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. 16:16
And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The sixth judgment will dry up the Euphrates River, which means in the Hebrew, the, "to break forth” river. The
Euphrates River is one of the most important in the world. It is included as one of the four rivers having its source in the
garden of Eden in Genesis 2:10-14,
But most important, it is cited in Genesis 15:18 as the eastern boundary of the land promised to Israel in the Abrahamic
covenant. An army, therefore, which crosses the Euphrates River from the east to the west, by this act, invades the
Promised Land. The drying up of this river is pictured as an act of God to permit easy access of the military hordes to
cross its dry river bed. The Euphrates River has long been a geographic barrier of great importance.
In the ancient world also the eastern boundary of the Roman Empire was the Euphrates River. To the east was the
Parthian (Iranian) empire which periodically crossed the Euphrates in a skirmishing and pillaging force. One of the more
major invasions was repulsed by Herod the Great causing a great increase in his profile in the Empire of the day.
The reference to the “kings from the sun rising” or east shows an eastern coalition enters the scene at this point to join in
the assault upon the Jews in Jerusalem. It must be noted that the reason for the gathering of this great oriental horde is
found in verse 14; that is, this is a part of a world wide gathering of 'the kings of the earth and of the whole world" in order
that they might participate in "the battle of that great day of God Almighty". They come to fight against God – what
deluded fools Satan has to die with his false prophet!
Verse 13
John saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the trinity of evil, the dragon (Satan), the
beast (13:1-10), and the false prophet. These frog like creatures are identified as demons (verse. 14), and their task is to
woo the kings of the earth to join the war of Armageddon. These are ruling demons or kosmokrators and they deceive
the eastern peoples to join the Anti-Christ and crush the Jews. It is a desperate and fatal decision for all who accept it.
Verse 14
“Daimon” should be translated demons rather than devils. These demons perform miracles.
They are acting under Satan’s authority, and are permitted to afflict with bodily diseases. Luke 13:16. Being unclean
they tempt human beings with unclean thoughts, Matthew 10:1 Mark 5:2, 7:25, and differ in degrees of wickedness.
Matthew 12:45.
In this time they instigate the rulers of the nations at the end of the age to make war against God and His Christ. These
wicked spirits are declared to work miracles, Revelation 13:12-15, and their purpose as stated in verse 13 is to bring a
mighty army to the final battle, which is described as "the battle of that great day of God Almighty."
Working signs in the Greek is “Doing signs” and is the present active participle of “poieo”. The Egyptian magicians
wrought “signs” (tricks), as did Simon Magus, and later Apollonius of Tyana. The famous Houdini claimed that he could
reproduce every trick of the spiritualistic mediums and did so.
The Greek noun ‘polemos’, translated "battle". In this verse polemos signifies a war or a campaign, Its synonym, ‘mache’
signifies a battle and sometimes even a single combat. A comparison of these two Greek nouns may be seen in James
4:1 where both are used, '"From whence come conflicts (polemos) and battles (mache) amongst you, come they not
hence, even of your lusts that make war [strateuo] in your members." These last months of the Great Tribulation are a
time when the lusts of unsaved men have no boundaries and they open themselves to judgment by God.
In the Revelation context there is something more than a military engagement in view. It is rather a major world wide war.
The use of the term campaign signifies that the events in the gathering at Armageddon are viewed by God as one
connected campaign. The phrase “unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world", is best rendered, according to the
Greek text '"unto the kings of the whole inhabited earth."
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Verse 15
The thief did not come in secret in the ancient world. He came openly but suddenly with much
noise and took your house by storm. "Behold I come as a thief” is an utterance from God Himself. This expression is
used of a sudden, violent and unexpected coming which will result in judgment or loss on the part of the person
overtaken cf Matthew 24:43; Luke 12:39; I Thessalonians 5:24; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 3:3).
Thus the exhortation is directed to two classes of people. To the lost the grace of God is still offered in the face of
persistent and shameless rejection. Also, to the saints who are still on earth the exhortation comes to remain true to their
Lord. Believers will be safe in the midst of all this carnage and chaos, but only by knowing and obeying the Word of God.
With the three army groups in the land it is a time to claim this promise. “Blessed” means inner happiness. To keep ones
garment was a military phrase. If a Roman soldier had been placed on guard duty and had fallen asleep the officer of the
watch would simply torch the sleeping guard’s clothes, and he would burn to death, or, “not keep his clothes”. This is
therefore an idiom for being prepared.
Verse 16
They are gathered together to Armageddon. The pronoun “he” no doubt refers to God, as He
is behind the scenes in this judicial judgment. It is God Almighty therefore who brings righteous retribution upon the
persistently wicked. The focal point for their gathering is '"a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon." Megiddo is
the Hebrew word corresponding to the Greek Armageddon. The Greek word, 'however, actually means "the mount or hill
of Megiddo", from harmegiddo.
This however not only refers to the "Hill of Megiddo", but includes the valley of Esdraelon, Megiddo being the entrance to
the valley. This valley is also known as the valley of Jezreel. The broad plain that is here described is approximately
twenty kilometres wide and thirty kilometres long and has been the scene of many great battles. It is a good landing point
for troops coming across the Mediterranean Sea from Europe, and allows their marshalling before heading directly up the
valley into the heart of Israel.
The actual old city of Megiddo occupied a very important position on the southern rim of the Plain of Esdraelon, the great
battlefield of Palestine. It was famous for two great victories of Barak over the Canaanites, Judges 4:15, and of Gideon
over the Midianites, Judges 7, and for two great disasters; the deaths of Saul, 1 Samuel 31:8, and of Josiah, 2 Kings
23:29,30; 2 Chronicles 35:22.
Armageddon becomes a poetical expression for a terrible and final conflict. It is here at the great battle where the Lord,
at His advent of glory, will deliver the Jewish remnant besieged by the Gentile world powers under the Beast (Revelation
13:1-10) and the False Prophet (Revelation 13:11-18).
At least four other geographic locations are mentioned in the Bible as figuring in the final titanic struggle between good
and evil. The centre of course, is Armageddon, where the main forces are located and their headquarters are.
[a] The city of Jerusalem itself is described in Zechariah 12:2-10· 14:2,3). From these descriptions it is clear that
the nations are engaged in active warfare in relation to Jerusalem at the time of the second advent.
[b] The valley of Jehoshaphat mentioned in Joel 3:2,12. Although there is some dispute as to its location, it
appears to be the valley immediately east of Jerusalem, whether the narrative pictures a gathering of a battle for
Jerusalem or is a subsequent event to the second advent is not entirely clear.
[c] Edom (Isaiah 34:1-63 63:1-6). Again it is not entirely clear whether this is part of the battle or a subsequent
judgment of God.
[d] In Daniel 11:41, Edom, Moab, and Ammon are specifically mentioned as escaping the full brunt of the battle
and the awful bloodshed stemming from this whole campaign is described in Revelation 14:20.
This desert area is the location where the believing Jews flee half way through this seven year period.
APPLICATION
Whether the drying up of the Euphrates is literal, or whether the phrase means that it no longer formed a barrier to the
invading armies from the east, it allows the eastern group of armies to pour towards and into Palestine.
Whilst obviously the Lord can allow the Euphrates to dry up, the construction of a dam by the Russians across the river
has made this physically possible by mechanical means now. The great earthquakes and other tectonic activity
described so far would also provide the reality of vast mountains shifting and enormous slips of millions of tons of debris
into previously large rivers. The entire topography of the Middle East is changed by the final earthquakes and volcanic
activity, so the clear message is, by some means or other all barriers between the lands of the east and the Middle East
are gone and armies can drive straight across the land of Iraq without needing to pause to build bridges.
In addition, in the late 1970’s, it was reported that an all weather road had been constructed by the Chinese and
Pakistanis which would allow China all weather access into the Middle East for the first time. India at the time of
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construction lodged a protest in the United Nations claiming this was a threat to peace in Asia. As viewed in the light of
today's development Revelation 16:12 takes on great prominence as one of the significant factors of our time. It is the
political and military awakening of the Orient and it becoming a major power player in the Middle East that is in view
here. What happened briefly under the Mongols many centuries ago, will happen again at this time.
The great nations of Asia east of the Euphrates River, slumbering for centuries, are now beginning to stir and to become
a major factor in the international situation. The geographic immensity and the millions of humanity involved make it
inevitable that any future development embracing the entire world must take the Orient into consideration. The news of
today's papers reveals that Red China, with its population of over one billion, not only flexes its muscles against the
United States, but even against its old associate in their past communism, Russia. China’s wealth is being used to
control nations in Africa, the Pacific, and even America itself through their funding of the Banking system.
India and Japan likewise are experiencing economic and cultural advances which reveal the potential economic and
military strength of each country. Most of this momentum has taken place in the last thirty years, and developments
continue to be rapid. They are both referred to in 2014 as “the power houses of Asia”. Natural disasters have taken their
toll on both countries in recent years, but they remain the world centres of production of basic commodities today, with
over 90% of computer manufacture in China and India today.
The frogs make croaking noises, and were often used to describe corrupt politicians. The spirits are termed as the “spirits
of demons," likened to frogs, loathsome and filthy, that come out of the mire. Here is a picture of that which comes out of
the pit itself as the manifestation of the purpose and plan of Satan. Satan works through the mouth of the beast and the
mouth of the false prophet. The mouth is regarded as the source and verbal orders are the means of destructive power
being loosed by evil’s human and demonic agents. Revelation 1:16; 2:16; 9:17. The dragon not only works actively to
effectually complete his plans, but his two associates share in the work, as do the demons who actively indwell and lead
deceived but evil politicians and military men.
Unthinking and foolish people are often very impressed by what they do not know, by miracles, and the like.
Here a dazzling display of miracles will encourage the peoples to come into the Middle East. How can anybody survive?
It is significant that the war or campaign bears the name of "that great day of God Almighty'" as in this war the
omnipotence of God will be fully and finally demonstrated against all rebels, demonic and human.
In the midst of this campaign comes a warning and appeal for purity and watchfulness on the part of the surviving
believers; God will remember and protect His own in the midst of all this carnage, they must remember Satan’s devices.
2 Corinthians 2:11, James 4:7ff. The two big assaults on believers down the centuries have been deception about
theology and politics, and temptation to sexual immorality. Believers need to remain alert to all the “whiles of the devil”,
for he will launch all his demons into the battle in these last days with deception, and signs that are greater than anything
seen to date, but centring around these two historic themes.
When God comes back he is going to do so with power and will suddenly overcome. This is a promise which God gives
to the believers at this time. They are to look to this and be aware of all temptations to distract them from this
expectation. Believers have 7000 promises which we can claim such as 1 John 1:9, Romans 8:28, 1 Peter 5:7.
Those in the caves of Moab, Edom and Ammon, and those fighting in and around Jerusalem, will get comfort from this
promise, and if they stand firm they will survive. If however they surrender or flee from their positions before the Lord
appears, they will become just another Tribulational martyr statistic. These judgements allow them to be sure of the
nearness of the Lord’s return in addition to the daily count down since the setting up of the Idol.
We must be prepared for the assaults we will experience and stay alert. It is a shameful thing not to be alert, for it will
lead to foolish actions and needless losses. At this time in history, not knowing the Word of God could cost you your life.
This section explains the military judgment at the end of the Tribulation. Although the exact deployment of the forces and
the precise character of the successive battles which precede the second coming of Christ are not indicated in the
Scripture, it is sufficient for us to know that the Holy Land will be crowded with the armies of the world in preparation for
the dramatic second advent of our Lord to His creation. They have come to kill the Jewish people, but He has gathered
them together to destroy them totally.
ARMAGEDDON
JOEL'S PROPHECY
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SEVENTH CUP: THE SECOND ADVENT VERSES 17-21
In this section, we see three events that immediately preceded the Second Advent of Jesus Christ. We should
remember that Chapters 17 and 18 is parenthetical to explain the fate of "Babylon the Great" mentioned in vs. 19.
The events of Revelation 16:17-21 lead directly to the nineteenth chapter and the Second Advent and final phase of the
“Battle of Armageddon”.
16:17 And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of
heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done. 16:18 And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and
there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so
great. 16:19 And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon
came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. 16:20 And
every island fled away, and the mountains were not found. 16:21 And there fell upon men a great hail out of
heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail;
for the plague thereof was exceeding great.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Apo” means ultimate source, this is from the ultimate source of the throne of God or from God Himself. The bowl of the
seventh angel is declared to be poured out into the air which has its principal resulting action on the entire earth as the
verses which follow indicate. It is as if heaven opens and an entire rotation of the earth receives these last three
judgments.
With it comes the cry from the throne "It is done!" In the original language it is the verb Ginomai which means to come
into being fully and finally. The statement is therefore one word in the perfect tense, indicating action accomplished. It is
the final statement of God the Father preceding the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ
Verse 18
The first aspect of this event are sounds and disturbances in nature with voices and thunderings, lighting which is visible,
and the worst ever major earthquakes which is a world wide disturbance of all the tectonic plates. The entire shape of
mountain ranges and land masses appears to be changed by these monster earthquakes. The resultant volcanic activity
will darken the skies and create all the things described here. The recent volcanic explosion in Iceland in 2010 had all the
thunders, lightning, and earthquakes that are mentioned here. If this is a world wide disturbance of the plates of the
earth, then atmospheric conditions created would mean these things would be both seen and heard world wide!
This final statement is accompanied by amazing physical signs and disturbances. The "voices and thunders” and
lightning have special significance, as each are calculated to strike terror to the hearts of wicked, unrepentant men, but
bring hope of imminent victory to the believers, who know that the Lord can deal with the volcanoes and rebuild the
earth. There is no danger of a “nuclear winter” except during the Great Tribulation period. Believers will need to look
and listen, and while others despair as if it is the end of the world, believers claim scripture and see it as the start of a
new beginning of the world.
In addition to these signs, a world wide earthquake is occasioned which in magnitude and dire results exceeds anything
recorded in history. The fact this mighty convulsion is stated separately from the "voices, thunders and lightnings" marks
its speciality and its magnitude. Earthquakes will magnify as we draw near the end, till these super volcanoes and super
earthquakes of the Great Tribulation time frame.
Verse 19
Here the disturbances in nature affected not only Jerusalem, but also all the major cities around the world. The
earthquake literally divides "the great city", Jerusalem, and causes all other cities to fall. Zechariah 14:4 Revelation 11:8.
Babylon here is either Rome, which is spiritual Babylon, or a rebuilt city of Babylon on the Euphrates River, or a modern
city (or cities) that form the centre of corrupt financial-political-immoral power at the time. Babylon is the centre for
immorality, false religion, and corrupt economic and political power. I suspect it may be the great triangle of cities in the
American Eastern seaboard, as these are the centres of the evils that afflict our age.
The text however is quite clear that the area termed “Babylon” is the special object of the judgment of God as expressed
in the statement "to give unto her of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath." Here the word for "wrath" is “orge”, a strong
word coupled with “thumos”, to increase the degree of divine anger. The concluding phrase could be rendered, "The cup
of the wine of the boiling rage “thumos” of his settled anger “orge." The full judgment of the area called “Babylon” is
detailed in the succeeding chapters.
Verse 20
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Here we have major, world wide topographical changes. Not only does every city of the world come under the judgment
of God but the topography of the earth is going to be changed. Islands and mountains move position or disappear
entirely, showing the intensity of the fierceness of the wrath of our God. Such a judgment obviously will result in a great
loss of life and a complete disruption of an organised world that has remained up to this time.
So great is the earthquake that mountains and islands are removed from their places and the land mass area of the earth
is totally changed. Islands are dotted along all the tectonic plates of the Pacific especially and any major movement of
the plates will mean the islands move their position. Many of the mountains are absorbed back into the earth’s crust, or
flatten out. Previous mountain ranges become rolling countryside. Believers have been told to “flee to the mountains”
and they are ordered to “stay put” during this time, so great faith is called for from these believers at this time. They are
assured of the Lord’s protection and as these events start to occur can stand in the open and go along with the
movements in the earth. It will be the greatest roller coaster ride in history!
Verse 21
A great hail falls, with a single hail/ice/lava block/stone weighing up to a talent, or approximately up to 50 kilograms. The
word for the hail here can mean a block of ice like substance, and could cover lava bombs from volcanic activity as well
as hail of ice or meteors. This is extreme weather and atmospheric disturbances in places that will kill and destroy
surviving evil men, and yet the believers are warned in advance. As the earthquake moves the earth they will be best to
be in the open, and when the topography settles they are best to take cover, for then the hail of lava bombs or ice/hail
begins. The Lord has provided for his people with instructions which if followed will keep them safe.
Yet, in spite of the severity and universality of these last judgments, some wicked men will survive, unbelievable as it is,
and will persist in blaspheming God rather than turning to Him for forgiveness and mercy.
APPLICATION
“It is done” means that it has come to pass with results that will continue. This is the last judgment, and it says that it has
been completed. This is the last great effort by God to winnow out the final group of believers before his return using
judgments. Here we are at the last of the last group. We are at the end of the line as far as the unbeliever is concerned.
This is the last call to mankind to get on their knees and worship the true God rather than persist in worshipping the false
god of Satan.
God's word is now vindicated in history. This "loud voice" is very possibly audible to the assembled armies of Antichrist. I
wonder if in the midst of their battle-planning, they will also hear laughter from the throne of God? Psalm 2:1-4.
From the above list of earthquakes it is clear that there are an increasing number of major earthquakes affecting our
planet. The greatest earthquake of history will topple all the capitals of the world and divide "the great city" Jerusalem.
We are told in Zechariah 14:1-5 that the earthquake is caused by the feet of Jesus Christ touching down on the Mount of
Olives. Acts 1:11. While we may like some great buildings in our present world, don’t get too attached to them, for the
above Richter Scale 9 earthquakes that occur world wide at this time will flatten all the cities of the world into rubble
covered building sites, or future parks.
The Mount of Olives will split in two providing a way of escape for the Jews trapped in Jerusalem by the armies of the
Antichrist. God will remember the modern Babylon's fall which is outlined in chapters 17-18, and her treatment of His
people (17:6).This forms a basis for the judgments seen in Revelation 19:11-21.
There will be major topographical changes around the earth. This also occurred at the last great upheaval, at the time of
the last universal judgment, the Flood of Noah. That great upheaval created the mountain ranges and deep canyons, and
so this one will totally re-arrange the earth land masses and mountain ranges, as they presently exist may be gone.
Here again it is clear that the people still have their free will. God is not willing that any should perish but obviously many
do, indicating that man has a free will to accept or reject the offer from God of salvation through his Son. 2 Peter 3:9
For the third time in this chapter, men blaspheme the God of heaven for bringing just and righteous judgment. In contrast
to this, see the rejoicing of heaven in Revelation 19:1-10. Everything that man has built will crumble before his eyes.
Quite literally the whole world will collapse around the unbelievers, yet the survivors will persist in thinking they are still
masters of their own fate without any need for God.
This final judgment can be compared to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, but here extending over the entire
earth. The great cities of man will be reduced to rubble upon which the plants will grow again. Every great structure of
man is obliterated, and every great natural feature of the physical world will be changed! The world will not appear the
same after this last judgment. It is a total and complete wiping away of all that men have built. Jesus will totally and
completely rebuild!
BABYLON
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Scripture - Isaiah 13:19-22 - And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees’ excellency, shall be as
when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. 1t shall never be inhabited, neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to
generation, neither shall the Arabian pitch tent there: neither shall the shepherds make their fold there.
But wild beasts of the desert shall be there and their houses shall be full of doleful creatures; and owls shall dwell there
and satyrs shall dance there. And the wild beasts of the islands shall cry in their desolate houses, and dragons in their
pleasant palaces: and her time is near to come, and her days shall not be prolonged.
Isaiah 14:23 - “I will also make it a possession for the bittern, and pools of water and I will sweep it with the besom
[broom] of destruction, saith the Lord of hosts”.
Jeremiah 51:26,43 - “And they shall not take of thee a stone for a corner, nor a stone for foundations; but thou shalt be
desolate forever, saith the Lord. Her cities are a desolation, a dry land, and a wilderness, a land wherein no man
dwelleth, neither doth any son of man pass thereby”.
CONCLUSION
Neither a grace approach based on the Love of God nor judgment based on the Justice of God is able to bring those with
ultimate hardness of heart to God in repentance.
All of these events are simply a reminder to us of the words of Hebrews 12:26-27: "Yet once more I will shake not only
the earth, but also the heaven."
The context shows that the event in view is the destruction of all man made temporal things, and even a total
readjustment of the very tectonic plates of the earth. This is the inauguration of the Millennium, where for 1000 years
there will be a golden age upon the cleansed and rebuilt earth. The new heavens and new earth are still to come. 2
Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1.
However, the principle still applies: only the things that are spiritual and eternal in nature are unshakeable. This is to say
that the believer in Jesus Christ needs neither fear Armageddon nor death because, "Your life is hidden with Christ in
God". Colossians 3:3. Nothing is more secure than our position in Jesus Christ! It is this assurance that will keep the
believers of that terrible yet awesome day.
The conclusion of this series of judgments brings the reader, chronologically, to the return of Christ that is prophesied in
19:11. However, John is first given a vision of the details concerning New Babylon which has been mentioned several
times before. As we read these next two chapters dealing with the “Babylon” of the Great Tribulation period we will see
that it is not the ruins of Iraq rebuilt, but the centre of economic-political and immoral religious power, just as ancient
Babylon was in its own past day.
My suspicion is that the future “Babylon” may be the super-cities of the triangle, Chicago-Boston-Philadelphia-New York.
These places fulfil today what Babylon fulfilled in a past day. This will only be known in these last days, but we must be
clear in our thinking. All we love today about our cities is changed when every believer is removed from them at the
Rapture, and the cities we love become the cities of the Anti-Christ; his very power base. They are polluted by his evils
and they will all be levelled. Enjoy their beauty now, for it will be all reduced to ashes. The Lord has a different and
better plan for them! Let us enjoy our lands, but not worship either city or flag; let us focus upon the Lord alone.
Notes
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CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
INTRODUCTION
Five enemies of the Lord Jesus Christ have been introduced so far in the book; the dragon, the Antichrist, the False
Prophet, the Babylonian harlot, and those who have taken the mark. Each group is judged and eliminated from the earth.
The latter group have received judgment in chapters 15 and 16, the ecumenical religious system is destroyed in chapters
17 and 18, the Antichrist and False prophet in chapter 19, and Satan himself in chapter 20.
Internationalism in any form is anti biblical and anti Christ. Since the Tower of Babel incident God’s Plan for mankind has
been to have separate nations, to limit the spread of evil influences. Satan alone desires internationalism, for that gives
him control. There is both political and religious internationalism. All forms of internationalism are attempts by fallen and
rebellious men to bring world unity and order without reference to God.
The destruction of Babylon which has already been referred to, is described in detail in chapters 18 and 19. Chapter l7
portrays the religious and political aspects of Babylon, while chapter 18 the commercial aspect is in view. The 17th
chapter naturally divides into two parts. The first part, verses l-7, describes Babylon as the “great harlot”, and she is seen
this way by John in a vision. The second division of the chapter, in verses 8-18, is more fully developed as the emphasis
of the whole chapter is centred upon the beast, and describes what his relationship is to the great harlot, and to the Lamb
of God.
As early as Chapter 13, we have seen that Satan's final attempt to deceive mankind will involve three systems common
to human existence. These three systems are: political under Antichrist, religious under the false prophet, and economic
under the organization that is behind the “mark of the beast”. All these control systems have their headquarters in the
super-city of the modern “Babylon”. It is that super city headquarters that is in view in these next chapters.
In Revelation 14:9 we have reference to the beast (political dictator), his image (religious idolatry), and his mark
(economic symbol). In Chapter 17 we see the religious system known as Mystery Babylon destroyed. Then in Chapter
18 the defeat of one-world commercialism is described. Finally, the beast and false prophet as the religious leaders will
be defeated in Chapter 19 and cast into the Lake of Fire prepared for the devil and his angels.
RELIGIOUS BABYLON - THE HARLOT INTRODUCED. 17:1-2
17:1 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me,
Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“One of the seven angels” is an idiomatic phrase for the last or seventh angel, who has been John’s interpreter and guide
as the others have exercised their judgments. The “great whore” or prostitute is a powerful symbol of a world religious
system which gets its adherents through a combination of lust, greed, and money, just as a normal prostitute does. As
far as God is concerned all false religion is as corrupt as prostitution, for it trades in lies masquerading as truth in the
same way as a prostitute dresses up and pretends to be something she is not in order to please her clients.
The "many waters" represents the gentile peoples she dominates (verses 15-16 cf Revelation 19:2); all of whom support
her religious apostasy. These many waters are Gentile nations. She further illustrates in principle the Jezebel of
Revelation 2:20-23. Her association with the kings of the earth shows the use of religion as a front for political deception,
power plays, and intrigue. The immorality is in fact the prostitution of the truth for the sake of financial gain and increased
power to the few at the top. This new form of feudalism is at the heart of modern business and especially the
manipulation of the financial markets. A few gain and the majority starve. Satanic arrogance always has at its heart a
sense of entitlement on the part of his servants, and this is at the heart of satanic religion and financial systems.
The word harlot in the Old Testament is a term also reserved for God’s faithless people [Leviticus 17:7, Isaiah 1:21,
Jeremiah 3:1-14, Hosea 4:15]. It also applies to mighty mercantile or military groups such as Tyre [Isaiah 26:16-18].
Nineveh as capital of the world empire is also called a harlot and sorceress who sold nations into slavery [Nahum 3:4].
Sorcery and harlotry are also linked in Isaiah 57:3 cf 2 Kings 9:22.
Ancient cities often had their goddess pictured as sitting beside a river. Rome whose empire spread throughout the
Mediterranean area is naturally portrayed here as sitting on many waters. Psalm 65:7, Isaiah 17:12-13. This image is a
powerful one summing up all that is evil in Satan’s system and within his people.
APPLICATION
When believers are taken to heaven at the Rapture [1 Thessalonians 4:13-17], formal religion, which has been partially
counteracted by genuine Christianity, comes into its own. With no genuine believers to modify religion and preserve
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some truth within it, all that is satanic can take hold fully. What is left is the “great whore” of dress up religion and fake
faith; a system that caters to the pride and self centeredness of man.
The power of this apostate system will be increased by the political alliances depicted in verse three.
Apostate religion always is represented as spiritual adultery, or direct unfaithfulness to God. Those who try to unify
spiritual truth and worldly pursuits are called "adulteresses" in James 4:4. Even so, the final form of apostasy is called a
harlot. The people who are involved in this religious system at that end time all lust to have temporal power. The
decadent system attracts them. This is the wealthiest corporation that has ever existed and wicked people vie with each
other to get “a slice of the action” in the new world order that Satan has launched.
The universal satanically controlled “church” is the path to power and influence with respectability and politeness. It is all
a shame and deception, exactly as the prostitutes smile is a deception; she is simply after the foolish man’s money!
Solomon rightly described both the sexual and the religious “great whore deception” of Satan. Proverbs 2:10-19, 3:31-35,
5:3-20, 7:4-23.
17:2 With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been
made drunk with the wine of her fornication.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The means of the success of the system is given in 2 Thessalonians 2:7. It is shown that there are signs miracles and
lying wonders which attract wicked people into the system. It is the self centred and lust driven who are attracted. God
allows the unbelievers to see and experience strong delusions, and lets them have their fullest desires.
No ecumenical religious system has been able to totally dominate the world in the Church age. Romanism and Islam
have both tried and failed due to the restraining ministry of the Holy Spirit. With the church gone there is no restraint
upon the religious game players who are left controlling the assets that were once the Christian Church. It is easy for
Satan to then use his pre-planted people to take over and consolidate all churches under his umbrella new world order
church. He doesn't control Judaism or Islam, and there are those within them that see the truth about his deception.
The concept of spiritual adultery is frequently used in describing the apostasy of Israel. Ezekiel 16:23 and the book of
Hosea. Jehovah in the Old Testament is seen as the husband of Israel. Isaiah 54:1-8, Jeremiah 3:14, 31:32. In the New
Testament Jesus Christ is seen as the husband of the church who will be joined to him later [2 Corinthians 11:2]. She is
warned against spiritual adultery [James 4:4]. This new church system will specialise in spiritual adultery!
Rulers of client nations in Asia and Syria who were subservient to Rome were called kings even though they had to
please Rome and cooperate with its agents. They also raised no objection to the imperial cult; indeed they were
expected to support and fund it. Undoubtedly they did not think that they were prostituting themselves, but they were in
return for the power the Roman’s let them pretend to exercise. The same thing will be required under the one world
government and many leaders will be ready to “prostitute” themselves and their beliefs to keep their temporary power,
status, and wealth as “client” rulers of the evil empire.
Nations became drunk on Babylon’s wine. Jeremiah 51:7. The nations of the future will become drunk on the power lust
they experience under modern Political-Religious Babylon’s rulership over them.
PROPHECY - ONE-WORLD RELIGION
Scripture 1 Timothy 4:1 (65 AD): 'Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the
faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.
Spiritual unity in Christianity is of great importance. In fact Jesus prayed for unity among Christians in the bonds of
peace. However, mankind in general is looking towards the amalgamation of the world's religions into a one-world
religion transcending the boundaries of Christianity itself.
APPLICATION
The leaders of the national entities of today’s world already give at least lip service to the “great whore”; in the form of the
ecumenical system. The symbol of spiritual adultery is not used of pagan nations who do not know God but always refer
to people who outwardly have the trappings of Christianity while serving other gods.
All the pagans of the world will become involved in her degrading ways and will become totally intoxicated with the
satanic system. It is everything that man wants from a religion, minus all the guilt and truth that they find so upsetting in
Christianity. The Holy Spirit restrains religion from being universal today, but with the shift in the work of the Holy Spirit at
the Rapture of the Church, the combination of what remains becomes universal very quickly. Believers have a bigger
impact through the filling of the Holy Spirit than they realise at present in restraining evil in this world.
The hardest people to reach with the gospel are always religious people who have been entangled with man centred
philosophies and pleasant rituals in worshipping other gods, for they believe they have the truth, and so are blind to
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acceptance of real truth. These people are the centre of Satan’s new religion and it prospers initially with world wide
acceptance, with few exceptions. Daniel 11 may indicate that the Arab countries have their doubts, and when idolatry
enters at the mid-point of the tribulation they rebel totally against it and join with the believing Jews to oppose everything
the Anti-Christ and his systems stand for.
17:3 So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured
beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
John is taken away in the spirit to a secret place to give him further information. He sees the secret preparation for the
satanic counterfeit religious system, well away from the eyes of foolish men. The people of John’s day would recognise
the scarlet coloured beast as the Roman Empire as the Romans were the dominant power of that day and wore scarlet
such as other conquerors both before and after did, (the Assyrians and the British both used “red coats” in their armies).
Here the woman, which is the religious power, is seen sitting on the beast which is the political power. She is depicted
as being “Full of the names of blasphemy”, which means that the system is full of concepts and ideas which contravene
and are opposed to the Word of God. Sometimes names are personal, sometimes they relate to principles. Here they
refer to principles. False religion has always been “on Satan’s back”, as religion without relationship with God is his main
tool to deceive and destroy mankind. Religion has always been Satan’s main tool!
The beast is seen to be the so called “man of sin” when comparing this verse with Revelation 13:1
APOSTASY
APPLICATION
This indicates the startling fact that the religious system, in the form of the prostitute, is sitting on the political leader, in
the form of the Beast. It apparently has control over him, or maybe is being driven by him; either way they are
inextricably linked in satanic power. This actual event must occur during the first half of the Tribulation as from the day of
the erection of the abomination of desolation in the Temple in Jerusalem, the Beast will be worshipped universally as
god.
While there is apparently an actual “planning meeting” to establish this system between the two key human players (the
Anti-Christ and the false Prophet) the reality pictured here has always been Satan’s policy. He uses religion to deceive
and destroy mankind; he always has and he will right up until he and religion is eliminated from the earth.
The seven heads are empires, six who have dominated Israel in the past either by ruling them in the land or expelling
them from the Land. This conforms with the fourth and fifth cycles of discipline as outlined in Leviticus 26.
These empires are:1.
Egypt who made Israel slaves
2.
Assyria who sent the northern kingdom into dispersion in 721 BC
3.
Chaldea who sent the southern kingdom into captivity in 586 BC
4.
Medio - Persia who transferred the captive people back to their own land. 516 BC
5.
Greece who dominated the area and through Antiochus Epiphanes who installed a statue in the Temple placed
immense pressure on Israel - 323 BC
6.
The Romans who took over from the Hellenistic Empire and sent the Jews into dispersion in 70 AD.
7.
The final empire is the Revived Roman Empire of the Beast/Anti-Christ.
Religion often comes into prominence as an offshoot of political power. With a lack of restraint with the removal of the
real church, the religious power will try and dominate the political power, and make it subservient to it. This is what
happens in the beginning of the Tribulation as shown in this verse. All this battle for dominance between the two groups
is pure hypocrisy and deception however, for Satan controls both and they will do his will not their own.
In contrast where you have pure Christianity you have freedom of the individual emphasised and subjection to the
leaders of Government. Genuine Christianity always leads to a respectful separation of Church and State. Romans 13:17. There needs to be a separation of religion and state today, and as believers in the Word of God, we need to be heard
maintaining that. When the Church has gone, this separation will be swept away and replaced by total dictatorship.
The Beast, who eventually controls most of the world, is the ruler from both the political and religious viewpoint. He rules
a ten nation/group/area confederacy. There may also be a seven power block confederacy that is world wide in its
influence. The seven empires above may have both an historic and an immediate reference. Only at the time will the
prophecy be fully understood, which is what the Lord told Daniel. Daniel 12:4.
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17:4 And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and
pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Was arrayed” is in the perfect tense and shows that this is her permanent type of clothing. Purple and scarlet were the
two royal and religious colours. The scarlet dye was for royalty only as it was the most expensive dye in the ancient
world. It was made from the blood of a rare worm. In Psalm 22:6 David said of the Lord that “I am a worm” indicating that
he was the one who was dyed blood red by his sacrifice. The name of this worm is the worm from which the robes of
royalty were made. The worm was crushed to death to release the precious dye.
The purple is the royal or ruling purple. Purple and scarlet which are colours with a rich Christian symbolism here are
prostituted to this false religious system and designed to glorify it rather than using it in a humble way [1 Timothy 2:9-10].
Decked means clothed. This figure is clothed in riches and has a golden cup. This is a picture of great power, great
wealth and great pleasure. “Abomination” is a reference to the sensual/sexual pleasure associated with this system,
while “Filthiness” is the concept of false doctrine. Satan’s main attacks, as we have seen again and again, are from
immorality to defile his followers and addict them to lust, and false doctrine to hold their minds captive in his lies.
The most striking aspect of her appearance is the golden cup in her hand which is full of abominations or idolatry [2
Kings 23:13, Isaiah 44:19, Ezekiel 16:36] and filthiness of fornication or gross corruption [Revelation 2:21, 9:21]. She
holds a false communion cup; one that invites her followers to a feast of lust, rather than a memorial of ultimate sacrifice.
This is a religion without any sin, evil, sacrifices, or guilt, but it is the ultimate lie of Satan.
APPLICATION
In this analogy the whore is glamorous all the time and seductive all the time. This system appeals to the natural man.
Through the crushing of the body of Christ on the Cross we are made royalty, a royal priesthood through His blood.
The clothing on this woman not only indicates splendour and wealth, but also the trappings of ecclesiastical pomp which
is even visible today in the priestly garments of the organized, liberal, unbelieving churches.
The contents of the cup show that the final religious system on the earth before the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus
Christ will be a mixture of idolatry and sexual/financial corruption. This is something that is portrayed in long standing
denominations where there is a tendency towards spiritual degeneracy.
17:5 And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF
HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The capital letters we have here comes to us from the first translation of the King James Version where England was still
feeling very insecure from centuries of domination by the Roman Catholic Church. The capitals here was to indicate the
translators identification of this woman with Roman Catholicism, especially as that church had recently in English history
been killing people and thereby spilling the saints blood.
This is not a correct application at all, as the true “Mystery Babylon” involves a lot more than one church; it is a whole
world wide system without God in it at all. Today there are many true believers in all churches and that alone preserves
them in some form of truth, for where the believer is the Holy Spirit is active. All that is changed at the Rapture.
“Mystery” is a technical word which means doctrine that had not been revealed in the Old Testament. Romans 16:25,26
The word mystery “musterion” is not an adjective as implied by the capitals but a noun in apposition with Babylon. It is
placed beside the word Babylon so that Babylon explains the word mystery. Since the church is a mystery [Ephesians
5:32] this relates to a Babylonian mystery of the apostate and counterfeit church of the Tribulation period.
This is also seen in the names given to the religious system in Revelation 16:19 and 18:2. What this would appear to
indicate is that just as the fullness of the Church was unknown before the day of Pentecost, the full nature of this
apostate church will not be known until it is revealed after the Rapture of the true Church.
Babylon and the Tower of Babel was where religion and internationalism originated. Genesis 10:8-10. From this
stemmed the religious decadence which swept the ancient world, including the worship of Baal and the Queen of
Heaven. She was worshipped as Semiramis in Babylon, Aphrodite in Greece, Venus in Rome, Ashteroth in Palestine,
and Astarte in Syria. She was worshipped in statues of a woman with a child, or simply a beautiful and voluptuous
(fertile) woman. The appearances of “angels” who take the form of beautiful sexually exciting women is a direct satanic
operation, for the image of this sort of figure is based in the paganism of the satanic religious alternative to true faith.
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From the viewpoint of the history of Christianity it is interesting to see the influence of Babylonian religion on Rome itself.
Cyrus the Persian expelled the Babylonian cult of the woman and child as it was considered detrimental to the religious
convictions of the Medes and Persians [Ezra 1:1], but it was a satanic thing and so it did not die. Satan was determined
to have a fake “mother of god” well before Mary gave birth to the real Son of God. Satan works by counterfeits and so
wanted the counterfeit well in place before the truth arrived.
The cult fled to Pergamos where the satanic religion was welcomed [Revelation 2:12-17]. Later the centre of their religion
was transferred to Rome by Julius Caesar in order to introduce this religion into the Empire. As a result the Roman
Church became very much influenced by Babylonian features such as the worship of the earth mother and her child, and
with the spread of Rome’s influence became manifested extensively in the western world in later Roman Catholic rites
and traditions. The truth of the Virgin Mary and her great honour got overtaken by a worship of the primal mother-child
that had started in Babylon. Mary is to be honoured by all believers, but not worshipped. The satanic counterfeit will be
worshipped. Let us give Mary her correct place of honour but stand against all idolatry.
EASTER TRADITIONS
APPLICATION
The actual form of the system which will dominate the world was not fully revealed in the Old or New Testament but here
we see the harlot being the mother of harlots, so it is not just one major church, such as the Roman Catholic Church, but
there is a federation of apostate denominations under the harlot mother-church.
It is important that Reformation Age hatred of Catholicism does not affect our interpretations here, as many within the
Roman Catholic Church will be genuine believers and the harlot church of the Tribulation will be a combined church of all
who were once Christian denominations and probably many other religions also.
That which should be her sin and shame, she publicly glories in. Her offspring are numerous and her basic
characteristics remain unchanged from the days of Nimrod. The “whore of Babylon” has always been with us and it is not
one church, but there are elements of this false religious system in all churches. Wherever we have apostasy we have
the whore of Babylon.
Here in the closing days of the post flood period she appears as the parent of all that is decadent and loathsome.
17:6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and
when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
When John saw her he was utterly shocked. He was shocked at the tremendous power of the final formal religious
system of Satan’s counterfeit religion. John was staggered at the thousands of people killed by those within the religious
system. He had not thought that the churches could become persecutors when the genuine believers are removed from
them. This man sees small local churches without hierarchies and power, and he gets a glimpse of what “Christendom”
becomes and he is shocked to the core, for he sees churches without the real Jesus Christ, without the Holy Spirit, and
without genuine faith at all.
This last great religious system however is most vicious towards genuine belief, and kills probably very many of the
myriad of converts of the 144,000 evangelists from Revelation 7.
Drunken with the blood is an analogy of the drinking parties of the Roman Empire where people not only drank wine to
excess but it flowed over their clothes making their white tunics look as if they were stained in blood. Those in battle
would also have blood stained clothing. This false “church” is a corrupt and evil organization and directly guilty of
persecution of the true saints who must avoid all official “church” buildings at all costs. The only groups of believers in
those days will be underground groups operating in secret.
APPLICATION
Religion will always persecute the truth. Religion with all its glamour is covered by the blood of the saints through all the
centuries.
People are dying in India with sufficient beef wandering around to feed the people. False religion will always mask evil by
pious hypocrisy. The Hindu religion considers the cow sacred, but also the rat sacred, and so people die of starvation,
their grain eaten by loathsome creatures they will not kill.
The efficient way in which the Tribulational religious system eliminates all genuine believers is seen in the fact that she is
sated and drunk with the blood of the saints. It is a systematic elimination of all who stand for the truth and oppose their
evil ways. Apostate peoples and religion in general are unsparing in the persecution of those who serve and are faithful
to our Lord.
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THE INTERPRETATION OF THE VISION VERSES 7- 18
17:7 And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of
the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The angel asked John “Why are you so shocked?” This truth of the association of Satan with organized religion is so
obvious to the angel that he is baffled at John being shocked, but he will explain it. Most reading this passage today are
still shocked at this, for we do not see the liberals we meet as the murderers they will become.
The angel gives to John the interpretation of the woman’s relationship to the beast.
HOLY SPIRIT AS TEACHER
APPLICATION
We as Christians are able to know the mysteries of God as we have the Holy Spirit to teach us all things. We do not have
directly teaching angels, as John did here, for we have the Word of God which is the mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:1416.
In this case however the teaching angel shows John the meaning of the first part of this chapter by giving a general
description of the beast, Revelation 17:8-14, and the woman in Revelation 17:15-18, and what happens to her.
The only way to interpret the Bible is by using the Bible. God gives interpretation within the Word of God.
The woman sitting astride the beast in Revelation 17:3-6 is at the zenith of her prosperity and power, but God is moving
to judge her at this time. At present religion is powerful and corrupt in this world of ours. We must not be fooled by the
apparent niceness of organized religion; it is basically anti-God and will become totally satanic in this future day.
17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into
perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from
the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
WHAT IS THE BEAST?
In this verse there is a sequence:- firstly “was”, then “is not”, and thirdly, what yet “shall ascend”. This is a description of
the Roman Empire which was in command of the known world at the time of John. The phrase “is not” deals with the fall
of SPQR in 476 AD when Ordavacar the German took Rome and deposed the last emperor Romulus Augustus. The
phrase, “Shall ascend”, is said to be the revival of the Roman Empire at the time of the Great Tribulation.
The unbelievers will be utterly amazed at the grandeur and power of the Beast who appears to be the reincarnation of
old Roman Power. The rebirth of the Roman Empire will be a surprise to all who witness it, for none will think until it
occurs just how easy it will look in Anti-Christ’s hands. He has power and uses it without moral restraint. In a world that
seeks a strong man to deal with overwhelming problems, he is their “man”.
“Were not written” is in the perfect, passive, indicative, which looks at the Book of Life from an eternal viewpoint.
We know from other Scripture that everybody has their name in the Book of Life originally, and that it is expunged only
after a person dies without accepting the Lord Jesus Christ in time.
The person whose name is “not written” (or has been expunged) is an unbeliever. The passive voice means that they
receive not being written there because of their rejection of the Lord Jesus. The indicative mood indicates the reality of
their name not being in the Book of Life in eternity. Based on God’s election and foreknowledge this book contains the
names of only those who are born again.
“From” the foundation of the world - “apo” from the ultimate source. Millions of years ago, or better understood as “before
time was created”, God knew everybody that would live and gave everybody an opportunity to be saved. None can
accuse the Lord of being unfair in time just because he knew in eternity the outcome. As we have seen in every chapter
of revelation there is extensive action taken by the Lord to open the door of salvation for mankind.
“Shall ascend out of the bottomless pit” indicates a satanic source. This is the same one referred to as ascending out of
the bottomless pit in Revelation 11:7. The only difference is that the text literally means that “he is about to come up”,
indicating that verses 1-7 precede his rise to ultimate power in the middle of the Tribulation period. [cf Daniel 9:27, 11:36
ff, Matthew 24:15 ff]
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“Go into perdition” is the judgment of ecumenical, fake, and satanic false religion.
“Yet is” is still in the future. The phrase “the beast that was and is not and yet is” implies his death and resuscitation. We
are reminded by this of things covered earlier, that underline Satan’s great power, but God’s greater power.
UNLIMITED ATONEMENT
APPLICATION
Rome was there when the nation Israel was sent into dispersion and it’s new form (European Union and America) will be
there when the dispersion is lifted at the Second Advent. Rome disciplined Israel in 70 AD but Rome’s descendents will
be disciplined at the Second Advent for the evils of the last 2000 years of Ant-Semitism, and the evil ones amongst them
will go into perdition.
Unbelievers are impressed by fake and deceptive miracles and will concentrate on the person of the Antichrist to such an
extent that they will worship him as god and reject the true gospel which is being given by many means during this period
of time. They pay the price for their willing deception, but those who repent are forgiven.
17:9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman
sitteth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The identification of this city as Rome has been made from literature outside the Scriptures which of course is not
conclusive. In the time of John Rome was usually called the seven hilled city. Virgil, Horace, Ovid are amongst those
who called Rome as a city seated on seven mountains and it continued to be so called for some five hundred years.
The fact that Rome was on seven hills was also celebrated in the annual Roman festival called Septimontium. John is
clearly stating that the Beast will emerge from genetic stock of the old Roman Empire and the new Rome/Babylon will be
a city complex that does in that day what ancient Rome did in John’s day; it will control the commerce and political power
of the world. it will be the centre of immorality and adultery/idolatry.
APPLICATION
“Here is the mind that hath wisdom” reminds us that spiritual wisdom is required in order to understand what follows.
There is a continuity between the Rome of the Caesars and the New Rome/Babylon of the Anti-Christ.
The same satanic system that persecuted the first Christians persecutes the last believers in Jesus, but this second time
it is fully and thoroughly judged.
17:10 And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh,
he must continue a short space.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Are fallen” is a word that is used of violent death when speaking of individuals or violence when referring to kingdoms.
Judges 3:25, Isaiah 21:9, Ezekiel 29:5.
The five that are fallen are Egypt, Assyria, Chaldea, Persia, and the Macedonian-Greek Empires. All these empires
dominated the Jews either in the land as the Greeks did or in captivity in the case of Egypt, Assyria for the northern
kingdom and Chaldea for the south. All of the empires were greatly affected by the occult.
[a]
Egypt spent much of its wealth on pyramids built along astrological lines and was given to black magic. Exodus
7:11, 2 Timothy 3:9.
[b]
Assyria’s capital Nineveh was well known for its occult practices. Nahum 3:4,
[c]
Chaldea really perfected the black arts as well as all forms of magical arts.
[d]
The Medio-Persian empire conquered Babylon at the time of Belshazzers feast in Daniel 5 and came under the
occultic influence from that place.
[e]
The Greek Empire was founded by Alexander the Great who made Babylon his capital and eventually died
there. The Greek culture was clearly affected by the occult as portrayed by its gods and other practices.
[f]
The Roman Empire was afflicted by the same occultic beliefs as had originated in Babylon.
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The Roman Empire was at its height at the time of John. One of its leaders had of course banished John to the island of
Patmos.
“The one that is to come” = The revived Roman Empire under the Antichrist.
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S VISION
APPLICATION
We can be confident of God’s plan which is eternal. He knows the whole gambit of history from eternity past to the future.
The first contact between the Hebrews and the Egyptians came with Abraham, and the “one that is to come” is still to
come some 4000 years later.
We may think that political might as shown by Rome in the day of John was and remains irresistible and will never cease,
but God’s Word reminds us that all men are temporary and their power is temporary.
The Scriptures indicate with total accuracy the progress of history, and it is heading for a climax that the Lord will bring
about and end by the elimination of all wickedness from the earth.
17:11 And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The eighth is the Antichrist who comes from the revived Roman Empire.
“And is of the seven”, shows that there will be certain features of the last beast that are closely connected with the
characteristics of the preceding seven. He will be a culmination of the previous empires and empire leaders; he is the
ultimate power hungry and abusive leader of history.
APPLICATION
The final form of the world government is symbolised by the eighth beast itself, and is the government of the last half of
the Tribulation period.
The eighth beast will go into perdition or certain judgment and this fits into the picture of the destruction of the man of sin
in Revelation 19:20, cf Daniel 7:9, 14.
Again we see the fact that the beast/Antichrist was dead and was brought back to life in a miraculous way by satanic
power and this deceives the unbelievers into thinking that he can take on God and survive.
17:12 And the ten horns which thou sawest are ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet; but receive
power as kings one hour with the beast.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Revived Roman Empire is firstly a confederation of ten nations. He conquers three of the nations and then he
secures control of the entire group. Daniel 7:24 The horns of the beast are ten kings/rulers [Daniel 7:23-24]. These kings
are the rulers of the ten nations who are allowed to reign for a short time with the Antichrist, but they will share his fate,
as they have shared in his evil.
The attempt of the Antichrist to gain absolute power will be interrupted by his assassination and death, but after his
resuscitation the second world war of the Tribulation will continue until three of the ten kings are killed. Daniel 7:24.
Once they are killed the others submit to his authority and join his evil plans.
APPLICATION
It should be noted that at the time of writing of this book in AD 96 these kings had not yet received their kingdoms or
rulership showing that the view that all this was fulfilled in the first century does not agree with Scripture.
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17:13 These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Diadidomi” is used rather than the more common “didomi”. The leaders have all the same political purpose and they will
give their power to the Beast; they are not unwilling participants, but willing conspirators. He is more evil and more
powerful and ruthless than them and so they give way to him to get more power from him. In this he deceives them all,
for he will share power with no-one. Their weakness is the same satanic self centeredness that he has.
To suit the beast they are allowed to rule as independent nations and their duration will be dependent on the rule of the
Beast. This is however only superficial independence as they will give their real power to the beast. The king’s unified
conspiracy against God would come to nothing. This conviction had long been part of Jewish hope. Psalm 2:2, 83:5.
NIMROD - INTERNATIONALISM
APPLICATION
Political manoeuvres at the present time are working towards regional groupings such as APEC and NAFTA. These are
apparently independent but really the “string pullers” are simply more cunning and behind the scenes setting their
agendas and prescribing their results. Nations are still apparently independent, but with huge indebtedness they are
slaves and independent only by sufferance to the money brokers and their political masters. These are seen only by
those attending the key meetings, when they see who draws up the agenda items and who controls the discussion.
These kings all rule at one time and all finally give their allegiance to the Antichrist in order to maintain their own power.
God’s method of world government is for nations to exist in a balance of power, with maximum personal freedom for
using the four divine institutions:- free will, marriage, family, and nationalism.
Satan’s method in contrast is internationalism and enslavement of the populace. God judges internationalism finally at
the Second Advent. We ought to oppose it now, but its total defeat is only possible by the Lord. Our words now are
prophetic and warning words that will be remembered when these things occur, and as such will have evangelistic
importance for those who ignored us in the Church Age, but will repent in the last days.
17:14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King
of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
They, the kings of the earth, are in league with the wild beast [Daniel 7:7], make war with the Lamb, and try to destroy all
the Lord’s people, but the Lord Jesus Christ will overcome them. They are deceived in their assessments of their own
abilities and power.
“Called, chosen, and faithful” describe believers [cf Revelation 19:14]. Called - saints [2 Timothy 1:9], chosen - people
from the Church age [Ephesians 1:4], faithful; they are all in resurrection bodies and have no sinful nature [Matthew
25:21-23, Revelation 2:10]. “King of kings” is a title that had long been applied to rulers of the east Ezekiel 26:7, Daniel
2:37 cf 2:47 and was then used as the title of the Parthian King. More significantly the Jewish people often applied these
titles to God. Deuteronomy 10:17.
The Jews also recognised that in the Old Testament God raised up nations to judge one another. His purposes however
were far different from the purposes of the nations themselves. Jeremiah 51:11, Joel 2:11
APPLICATION
No confederation, irrespective of how strong they appear to be, can overcome the King of Kings and Lord of Lords,
whose names make this quite clear. A world dictator will assume he is Lord of Lords and King of Kings but he will be
proved wrong when the true King of Kings returns to set up his everlasting kingdom.
Satan and his men have deceived the unbelieving world, but first they have deceived themselves as to their real power.
17:15 And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and
multitudes, and nations, and tongues.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This is an explanation of the waters on which the whore sits. It is the nations of the world. The apostate religious system
will exercise a huge amount of influence in that day. The nations are divided geographically, linguistically and by race.
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NATIONALISM
APPLICATION
People are divided into national entities by various means including geography, language, and race during this period of
the greatest push for internationalism the world has seen since the Tower of Babel. We must be alert to it now.
Religion’s main concern is for gold [ cf Revelation 18:12] and her least concern is for the souls of men [Revelation 17:6].
17:16 And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make her
desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Flesh” is in the plural which indicates the great wealth of the apostate religious system. Lust and religion have always
been cousins! In the Great Tribulation the evils of religion will be seen for what they are. The political system will start to
hate the religious system and he eventually eliminates it by replacing it with naked worship of power itself in the form of
the Antichrist. Religious Babylon who sought political alliances and power, Revelation 17:3, is now destroyed by its own
previous political allies. Revelation 17:16.
They are said to: [a] Hate her with loathing and disgust.
[b] Make desolate or totally despoil her of her riches and assets [Revelation 18:19]
[c] Make her naked, and so stripped of her rich trappings the whore will be seen for what she is.
[d] “Eat her flesh” which means that the kings will devour her wealth and they become her bitter enemies [James 5:3,
Psalm 27:2, Micah 3:2-3]
[e] “Burn her with Fire” shows utter political and social ruin of the apostate church.
APPLICATION
This indicates what the political groups think of apostate religious systems once they have been used for their political
purposes. Real political power brokers hate and despise religious power players as weak and pathetic, and when they
destroy the apostate church they will do it with blood, just as they both destroyed all believers they could find previously.
They despise and aggressively destroy the religious system to replace it with the direct worship of Satan. Literally the
people of that day who continue to reject Jesus will be out of the frying pan into the Lake of Fire.
Despots and political parties will use religious organisations and dump them when they have lost their useful purposes.
17:17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until
the words of God shall be fulfilled.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These rulers who have joined together to destroy the harlot, conforming with the will of God without realising it, now
agree to give their kingdoms to the Beast. They are working out their own free will, but are in effect proving God’s Plan
correct in all details.
Until the words of God shall be fulfilled literally means, “the words of God are finished or accomplished”.
PLAN OF GOD
APPLICATION
God has a plan in history and man will work this plan out in accordance with the plan while maintaining the exercise of
their own free wills. Even though Satan would like to change the plan he is unable to do so. Only God is eternal and
omniscient, and so He alone knows all the facts about time and space. Satan’s great miscalculation is that he pretended
he was more powerful than he was, and he pretended to himself!
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The real power according to the will of God will be vested, not in the religious organization, but in the Beast himself
[Revelation 13:2-7].
We should be willing to conform to the plan of God for our lives, for it alone is certain. Satan is surprised when he is
defeated, because in his arrogance he did not sit with the facts about his being a creature taking on the creator!
The Antichrist will take over control of the whole world with the exception of the central Arab nations where the Jews find
sanctuary. His next attempt is to gain world religious control which initially will be the destruction and take over of the
existing world religious system - Mystery Babylon. The old World Council of Churches grouping will be destroyed totally
and replaced by the idol worship of the Anti-Christ centred in the temple in Jerusalem.
17:18 And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The great city here is new Rome/Babylon (Capital of the evil empire) from which Antichrist reigns over the kings of the
earth. Rome refers to its political aspect, and Babylon is a reference to its religious rather than the historic significance of
that city. Here we have apostate Babylon associated with apostate Christendom of the Tribulation based in the new
Rome.
No one in John’s day could have doubted that the city that reigns over kings meant Rome any more than anyone would
have doubted that the seven hills of verse 9 referred to Rome. It may be the actual city, but is more likely to be the
natural inheritor of the rulership of the old Roman Empire.
APPLICATION
A New Rome is to be the religious and political centre of the world at the end of the time of the Gentiles. It may be the old
Rome becomes the headquarters of the Antichrist, but the new centre of world commerce and religious power is New
York and the other East coast cities of the USA.
It may be that the New Rome/Babylon is there; only in the days that this occurs will the believers know for sure.
Remember the words of the angel to Daniel in Daniel 12. These details are sealed for the time itself and we can only
speculate, and that isn’t helpful or useful.
Unless restrained, religion will always want to dominate, as it is Satan’s prime way of trying to control his domain today.
Even though he uses religious people, he hates them, and before the Lord returns he kills them all! Feel sorrow for
those who have religion without reality, for they are despised by the very one they serve. Keep preaching the truth to
them.
CONCLUSION
The woman portrayed in verses 1-6 is identified with Ecclesiastical Babylon. Sitting on a beast she has the support of a
political system that will eventually destroy her.
This is what the ecumenical movement is heading towards; the one world religion. This apostate system will remain
unchallenged during the first half of the Tribulation, but it is just fodder for the Anti-Christ, and the religious “fools” who
run it will be used and then eliminated by Satan’s people. These liberal members of most of the world’s religions will be
murdered and will be baffled as they die, not seeing the malice of their “lord”. Satan hates mankind!
The ten satanically inspired kings will destroy the world religious system in the middle of the seven year period as it is a
challenge to the ultimate world authority of the Beast. [Daniel 9:27] At that point the Beast institutes a new religious
system with a demand that the world worship him as God. [ Revelation 13:4,5, 17:8-11].
More and more we see the present world and its humanism invading churches and distorting the truth of God for
humanistic goals and methods. We can see this apostate harlot being formed today, as many denominations forsake the
message of the cross for social action and humanistic concerns.
The Lord Jesus Christ is forgotten in favour of human rights. Ecumenical mergers will ultimately weld together a world
religion without the historic Jesus Christ as Saviour, King and God, having an outward form of godliness but denying its
power. Needless to say, the end of this system will be a horrible judgment from the Creator and Saviour they scorned.
Romans 8:9, 2 Timothy 3:5, 1 John 4:1-6.
This apostate system is the final result of the Laodicean Church (Revelation 3:14-22). Jesus Christ and His Gospel are
pushed more and more into the background as social and civic action replaces the work of God in redeeming and
regenerating.
In this and the following chapter we have the harlot of Satan whilst in the final chapters of the Revelation of the Lord
Jesus Christ we see the bride of Christ.
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CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
INTRODUCTION
Commercial Babylon
Here it is God who destroys the commercial centre of the world; the new Babylon (It’s nature is both ancient Babylon and
Rome). Babylon, in this chapter is revealed as both a super city complex, and a system. The religious aspect of that
system was described in the preceding chapter; this chapter concerns mainly the commercial facets of Babylon.
Along with increasing spiritual apostasy, it is inevitable that there will also be increasing materialism through the
Tribulational period. Whenever men forsake the genuine spiritual, they become preoccupied with the physical and
materialism. When they refuse to worship the eternal, they will serve the temporal, and be addicted to the material.
Thus the two systems, religious and economic, depend on each other.
The destruction of new Rome/Babylon is so critical to the world economy, that when it is destroyed in an hour, the whole
world will be plunged into mourning. All the pleasure and distractions that the pagan world of Anti-Christ can offer are tied
up in the economic system. This is only the prelude to the great earthquake that levels all cities and infrastructures.
It is said that New Babylon would be destroyed by the Lord God Almighty when the “day of the Lord” is near. The fall of
commercialism is a warning that the Coming of the Lord is very near indeed. Isaiah 13:6-7. It is a sign of doom to the
enemy, but another sign of hope to the waiting believers world wide.
Old Babylon may also be rebuilt in the last days, and this is indicated by the prophecy that a temple will be built in the
land of Shinar. In order for this to happen it would be reasonable to assume that a city would have to be rebuilt as a site
for the temple. Zechariah 5:5-11. We know that Iraq had been rebuilding Babylon. Back as far as 1971 Iraq was stated to
be considering a plan to construct parts of the city of Babylon including a 90 metre tower, but all that was stopped by the
invasion and capture of Iraq by the Americans.
While the rebuilt Babylon may house a special temple which will allow for occultic practices, it is considered that the
“great whore” of religious and commercial Babylon is likely to be either Rome, or a New Rome-Babylon in the New
World. In this regard it is of note that the European Common Market was started with the Treaty of Rome in 1963.
Announcement of Doom Verses 1-3
18:1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was
lightened with his glory.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The phrase "after these things” notes a new commencement and introduces a new set of circumstances. In this chapter
the Beast is not named once, nor the ten kings, for the focus is upon their economic structure and the faceless people
who drive the system and control economies from behind the scenes. These people have profited and prospered from
the evil empire of the beast, and so they now face its destruction and removal. As all they trusted for the world’s
problems is swept away they have a powerful appeal to repent given them.
John sees an angel having delegated authority from God and reflecting the glory and power of Christ. The angel’s body
is made of light and he is a very powerful angel. The angel foretells the doom of this wicked system and the total triumph
of God, and the Lord Jesus as ruler of the earth. The power balance, as men perceive it is shifting, and they are
increasingly seeing that the Anti-Christ isn’t as powerful as he has claimed to be, and that the angelic host of God is not
defeated, or gone, as he has claimed.
LIGHT
APPLICATION
God is light as are the bodies of elect angels. The initial clothing of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden was likely light
also, and our resurrection body may also have this aspect to it as the Lord’s did.
Currently we live by faith and not by sight but in the Tribulation period there are going to be a multitude of signs and
wonders. The signs and wonders will be performed by both sides of the conflict and only knowledge of the Word and
faith in its orders will keep the believers safe at that time. Discernment from the Holy Spirit will keep believers safe.
This again demonstrates that this is final part of the Age of the Jews, as the Jews look for signs. 1 Corinthians 1:22-25.
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18:2 And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the
habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Twice the angel cries, "fallen, fallen." The repetition fulfils the double portion of judgment, Revelation 18:6, as well as the
reference to the two systems: religious and economic. This cry was anticipated in Revelation 14:8. The fact that Babylon
becomes the habitation of demons and a place of perpetual burning, Revelation 19:3, suggests that this may even
become the entrance to the Lake of Fire. cf. Isaiah 66:22-24.
The word translated fallen is in the aorist tense which means that it happened at a point in time, suddenly. At the peak of
power or glamour it has collapsed and is become the habitation of demons. “Hold” is a garrison of demons whilst “every
unclean and hateful bird” recalls Isaiah 12:21, Jeremiah 50:39. Here demons are called foul birds.
The angel reveals that this system called “Babylon” is demonic, which is emphasised in three phrases
[a]
It is the habitation of demons.
[b]
It is the hold or prison of every foul spirit (cf. Ephesians 2:2; I John 4:6), where demons are called spirits.
[c]
It is the cage or prison, same word, for every unclean and hateful bird, for these carrion eating birds are going to
be called to their last feast upon the bodies of the fallen from the battle of Armageddon. They may not be normal carrion
eating birds, but special creatures for this loathsome and special task. Matthew 13:31-32. The men of the earth have
experienced satanic religion and satanic power through their worship of the beast, but they will receive judgment for all
this false spirituality.
SATANIC REVIVAL
APPLICATION
This shows that religion is demon inspired and led, and when the religious system falls the demons are all that is left.
When ever Satan starts a cult or group he has a cadre of demons to motivate it and provide its power.
This is the devil’s communion table - 1 Corinthians 10:19-21, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, Ephesians 6:12.
18:3 For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have
committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her
delicacies.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Fornication” here deals with religion gaining converts and then feeding the lust pattern of fallen men. The religious
system appeals to their emotion and the lust pattern of man. The very leaders/Kings of the earth, the rulers of nations
and peoples commit fornication greedily with the religious system, for by means of it they gain temporary power and
influence.
“Emporos” is where we get the name emporium for a store selling trade goods from afar.
Delicacies “strenos” means wantonness or arrogant luxury, and reminds one of the attitude of the medieval church which
bled the peasants dry to build the great cathedrals where bishops could live like kings. These evil people of the satanic
system in the last days serve the god of luxury and will do anything to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.
Babylon's connection to others is to three areas: the nations who worship her (religious), the kings of the earth (political),
and the merchants (economic) who provide them with luxuries while the poor are manipulated and starve. We see the
start of this economic system today. Up until the crash of 1987 there was general reform of labour laws and the workers
lot was being improved world wide, but from then the satanic “one world market/globalization” was launched and local
production was eliminated in many countries with the loss of local jobs, and the use of factories in the third world at slave
labour rates of pay.
This “one world economy/global village” economic system has carried on strongly over the last twenty five years and
most consumer goods are now produced in sweat shops in poor countries at low wages, and sold to the developed world
at high prices, with the people who control the system making a fortune in between. This polarization of the rich and poor
has been increasing rapidly through the last two decades, and it reaches its ultimate level under the Anti-Christ.
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Babylon is charged with being unfaithful; this charge of fornication, or unfaithfulness to the Lord, is repeated in this
chapter as in 17:2. New Babylon is also described as intoxicating in her policies towards the world. That means she
feeds the addiction for luxury and sin of others, enriching those who support the evils of their trade system, and
bankrupting those who stand against it.
All nations drink of the wine of her unfaithfulness, and merchants particularly have succumbed to her delicacies (literally,
luxury or careless ease) and become satisfied with their ill-gained riches. As people get rich by corrupt business and
slavery especially they find it necessary to justify their evils and strongly support the system that has made them so
wealthy. The centre of globalization today is likely to be the centre of Babylon in the future!
APPLICATION
The satanic religious system, by means of the involvement of political leaders, gains ascendancy in certain nations.
There are many examples today where the religious system dominates countries and creates great evils.
Countries which have a constitution which recognises the separation of religion and state are saved from this as long as
they adhere to their constitution. In the Great Tribulation period that wall of separation will be broken down.
Religion is always money minded, and ensures there is promotion in church and state, only for those who conform.
Often it is a great advantage from a business viewpoint to be involved in a religious system that the “power brokers” of
the community support/attend.
Just as the religious system had grown in proportion as it had been wicked, Revelation 17:4-6, so the global satanic
commercial system will prosper as it too abandons God in an effort to accumulate the wealth of the world. Corruption in
both religious and financial sectors is great leading up to this time and during it.
We must guard ourselves from “entanglement” with any aspect of this world of corruption and stand against corrupt
business practises that enslave people in other countries and pay inferior wages in our own. Leviticus 19:13, Jeremiah
22:13-17, 2 Timothy 2:1-10, James 5:1-6.
Let our voices be raised against exploitation of workers in the third world and the low wages in all other areas, with the
excessive profits of some at the top. When we stand against such things in Jesus name we oppose the satanic policy
and unbelievers left behind at the Rapture may remember such things and tied them back to the true gospel message.
THE CALL OF SEPARATION VERSES 4-8
18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her
sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Before the judgment falls, God calls out his people in separation. Jeremiah 51:6-10 suggests that some of the Tribulation
evangelists may attempt to turn the tide of apostasy in Babylon, but to no avail. It doesn’t matter that they fail, for in
trying they deliver the message, and that is what they must do, to warn the people. At times evangelism is not for
converts, but to ensure the wicked have no excuse before the throne of God.
Now they must leave her to judgment and flee from the cities of corruption into the wild places of their lands. Separation
is always from the world (Satan's cosmic system) unto God. Therefore, it is positive, and not a negative thing, with
negative results. “By their fruits you shall know them”. Matthew 7:13-23. If people have a negative aspect permeating
their life they have not met and known Jesus.
In pronouncing judgment on commercial and religious Babylon, Jeremiah warned his people that were supposed to be at
home with God, not in bed with the world, and to flee from the wicked city because God would destroy it. Jeremiah 51:6,
45 cf Zechariah 2:7. Many of God’s people had not returned from Babylonian Exile, but had stayed behind in Babylon for
the money to be made. Many perished in the rebellions there in the years 518-480 BC. Those who do not flee the cities
of the Great Tribulation period will all die when the last “plagues” are poured upon them.
Zechariah urges the people of his day, and this latter day, to be where God wants them, and it is out of the evil cities
under satanic control. Jeremiah urges the final generation yet to come, to return to Jerusalem as fast as they can before
judgment falls upon the wicked places of the world, and in Jerusalem they are to fight to the end, until the Lord arrives to
deliver them. Note there are two orders here - for all world wide believers to flee the cities, but for those in the land of
Israel to head into Jerusalem and join the fight against the Anti-Christ’s forces there, and make their last stand there, for
the Lord will return there to save the.
Even the presence of the righteous in any city would not stay the judgment at this time. [cf Genesis 17:19].
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Here there is a call to “my people” the Jews, to flee from Babylon prior to the destruction of the city. While the order is
specific to believers of the Tribulation period, it carries a general principle that we all need to heed. We must separate
ourselves from all organizations and groups and places that become evil saturated. We must live and stand together with
born again believers for there alone is safety. If we stand close to evil people we will share their fate.
SEPARATION
APPLICATION
We are told to separate from all apostate and morally corrupt systems. Once we see any group/church/club or system
move into evil we need to separate ourselves from it as fast as we can, no matter how much money we have invested in
it, or energy we have previously put into it when it was sound.
If you do not separate, you will participate in the testing or judgments which God places on that religious system. There is
guilt or judgment by association, but also conversely blessing by association. Up until a certain point a corrupt group
may be blessed by association with the believers in it, but there comes a point where the Holy Spirit will say, “Run!”, and
we must leave as fast as we can.
Christianity is not a religion but a personal relationship with God through Christ. Religion is the destroyer of human
freedom and as a satanic alternative to the truth is under God’s judgment.
This appeal will be addressed to those believers who will be living in the tribulation days and who like believers in every
age will be tempted to compromise. God calls us to be visibly different from the evil that surrounds us.
In its application it is a relevant call to the redeemed in every day to avoid compromise with Satan's world system in its
every form; religious and commercial. Genesis 19:12-14; Numbers 16: 23-26; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17; I John 2:15-17.
18:5 For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Jewish people recognised in the Old Testament that if God’s full judgment was delayed it meant that he was storing up
retribution for the sins of many generations to pour them out on an even more wicked generation. Genesis 15:16 , 2
Kings 22:20, Matthew 23:34-36.
The appeal for separation is substantiated on the basis of three laws; remembrance verse 5, retribution verse 6, and
retaliation verses 7-8.
First remembrance, God remembers that the first Babel confederacy tried to build a tower to heaven. Genesis 11:4.
APPLICATION
God remembers what the religious system has done through time and will judge it in His time, and that time is the very
end of the Great Tribulation.
The tower of Babel, built brick upon brick, reminds us of the sin of Babylon; that they built rebellious sin upon arrogant sin
until their sins reached heaven.
God is all knowing and is fully aware of everything we do. God does not suffer from amnesia, nor does he overlook
things. With sin he will judge; it is just a matter of timing.
God protects his own people within the midst of his judgment if they are walking with Him, and separated from the wicked
ones.
18:6 Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup
which she hath filled fill to her double.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
In keeping with the enormity of her sin retribution is doubled upon the generation that is filled up with sin. The verb used
means literally "to pay a debt", or “give back that which is due".
Divine justice exacts the "eye for an eye", and "tooth for a tooth", in keeping with the doubling of the normal law the cup
of iniquity which Babylon filled (Revelation 17:4], is now to be filled twice with the measure of her judgment.
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Reward means to pay back what is legitimately owed. The pay back is from God’s justice. His justice is perfect, as God
knows everything. Paying back double means that the retribution would be more than complete. Isaiah 40:2. They would
receive exactly what they deserved. None will accuse God of unfairness at the Great White Throne.
The basis of judgment of religious people in eternity is there “good works”. They choose religiously motivated works
ahead of grace motivated spiritual relationship with Christ and Holy Spirit empowered works, so they are judged for their
works! Revelation 20:11-15. The cup here is the cup that religion has filled by its rejection of Jesus.
The believer is to glorify God; apostate religion and humanistic materialism glorifies self. Thus commercialism will receive
double judgment based on the degree of her self-exaltation.
APPLICATION
Here the system is given double discipline because of her works. Matthew 7:1-2. They get judgment in time and in
eternity.
God is absolutely correct in all that He does, as He knows all the facts, and is able to discipline in accordance with the
crime and the motivation behind the crime/evil.
18:7 How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her: for she
saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Deliciously means luxuriously. Rome’s luxury at the time of John included grain subsidies to keep the poor and criminal
masses happy while they were entertained at the newly completed Coliseum. This cheap food came at the expense of
other nations, such as the heavily taxed peasants of Egypt. The excesses of the luxury of ancient Rome attracts God’s
wrath. cf Amos 4:1-2.
The religious system often acts as a ruler, a queen with many adherents. She is not ever a widow because so many
hover around her and desire to be her sexual partner. The lust based system attracts many followers and consorts.
The queen has a lot of fawning courtiers around. However in place of the glory and luxury with which she has clothed
herself, God retaliates with torment and sorrow. The verb in this verse that means ''lived deliciously'' is the same root as
the noun meaning "delicacies" in verse three.
In place of her assumed position as queen with many lovers, with the phrase “no widow”, God gives plagues, death,
mourning, and famine. In reality she becomes a widow because of her forsaking of the Lord.
APPLICATION
This represents pride as she says that she sits as a queen.
Often people will attach themselves to groups or individuals for wrong and selfish reasons. Greed motivates fallen
mankind and is a powerful driver of our modern world. Great past generations were motivated by noble desires, but
today’s world is moving rapidly towards the satanic system, as greed dominates motivation today.
Religion has no way of producing answers to people’s problems. It can produce human good and gimmicks but cannot
solve people’s problems, except by deceiving them it has done something.
With all the people around, the religious system is confident that she will never be subject to sorrow, but they are
deceived in their own deception. Their “good” is actually evil.
18:8 Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly
burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The judgment comes very rapidly when it begins. We have had a foretaste of this with the crash of 1987, and of 2007.
Twice the economy of the world has been put back together, and each time it has been done by concentrating more
power and wealth in the hands of fewer people.
Somewhere along the line the flirt has the opportunity to face reality, but for the vast majority of her followers there is no
repentance and so no salvation. People keep on believing that they can “climb the property ladder”, “increase their
personal wealth”, and they can succeed in both for a time, but in a day it will all come crashing down.
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People involved in this system had an excellent chance to face the truth with the massive evangelism in the Tribulational
period, but they are too busy feeling they are superior to the evangelists, and try to arrest and silence them.
When the flirt wakes up to the truth however it is too late. The capacity of love/respond has gone, which means that
there is a lack of capacity to truly see realistically what the situation is.
Mourning represents weeping, and wailing; this expresses maximum regret and a sadness and regret that paralyzes
action. Being sorry we are caught is not genuine repentance! Famine is the end of the line as far as religion is
concerned; which is judged in this terrible time.
Judgment by fire is judgment in eternity where people in the religious system end up in the Lake of Fire. The arrogance
of her self sufficiency will be judged in one day, and one hour (verses 8, 10). She who lived in luxury will experience
pestilence, mourning, and famine.
Her destruction in that future day will literally come in one day, as it happened before with another Babylon cf. Daniel 5:1,
3-5, 30. This also occurs with individuals, cf. Luke 12:19-20, 16:16-31.
APPLICATION
In the early days of the Church, James warned the people against the materialism of his own time, and what we see
today is just a more efficient and globally coordinated corrupt and abusive system. James 5:1-6.
He said, "Your gold and your silver will consume your flesh like fire." Trust in riches always brings its own self-induced
judgment. Jesus warned of this. Matthew 6:19-30. Those who abuse and exploit the poor are under God’s personal
judgment.
Christians were once burned because they were falsely condemned for having burned Rome. God will burn that city,
and its modern equivalent in wickedness, in His judgment on this day.
THE WORLD'S SELF-CENTRED WEEPING. VERSES 9-19
So much of the world's weeping is self-centred. Loss is seen only in terms of how these evil people are affected.
The world that crucified Jesus Christ with scornful laughter weeps over economic losses. In this section of selfish
weeping, we see three categories of crying:
[a]
Kings - verses 9 and 10
[b]
Merchants - verses 11 to 16
[c]
Shipmasters - verses 17 to 19
18:9 And the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall bewail her,
and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
These are not the ten kings of Revelation 17:12, 13, but the kings of all the nations who lived in luxury as a result of the
degenerate commercial system they profit from. Through the economic subjugation and abuse of many people (verse.
13), they were made rich. Now their source of excessive riches are gone.
In the previous verse it is seen that the religious system is utterly burned up “katakaio”, whilst in this verse the kings of
the earth see the glowing of her burning “purosis”. This is clearly a very literal smoking of the ruins of the great city. Any
major earthquake amongst the many that will occur in this time frame, that occurs centred in a major modern city will
cause buildings to collapse and fires to break out. Within the rubble of a modern city there are many flammable things,
from goods to gas and petrol products.
The dark smoke rising indicates deep fires in the rubble of the once great city. It is gone so totally that rebuilding is not an
option. You can see why the prophets urge all believers to flee from cities that practise wickedness in this time and live in
wild and isolated places. If the earthquakes are over Richter Scale 9 they will level most large buildings and the fires in
the rubble will burn for many months, fed by their broken gas mains and flammable material in the buildings. This whole
corrupt system is to be swept away.
APPLICATION
There are a lot of people who have lived it up with the “flirt” who will wail because they have suddenly lost the flirt.
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An attractive woman who has many people around her may suddenly become disfigured and so she loses all her
attendants. This is the picture here; suddenly all the attractiveness of the devil’s economic system is destroyed and
everyone who rejoiced in its riches are swept away in the flow on losses from it.
The Lord does not look on the outside but on the heart. The heart of wickedness is ugly and when judgment falls the true
ugliness within it is seen. Today we have seen this with the sweat shops producing American label running/training gear.
Their shoes and tee shirts are a fashion statement, but the squalor of their worker’s lives is a disgrace and shame to
America. They trumpet the economic success of their multi-nationals, but these evil corporations underpay their workers
and create social and economic hardship for all but their shareholders.
These global capitalists often deliver on their promise of ”Lowest Prices” but at the cost of local industry and living
standards. These companies under the banner of “globalization” create poverty, but make themselves rich. They have
created death in the Third World, with poverty, sub-standard buildings, and fires that have killed thousands of their
exploited poor workers. God hates this sort of business and they are under God’s judgment in time and their owners in
eternity will face their judge! Those who call themselves Christians within them need to re-read their scriptures and be
very scared, and then raise their voice against this modern slavery, as the church of the 1790s did against slavery then.
18:10 Standing afar off for the fear of her torment, saying, Alas, alas that great city Babylon, that mighty city! for
in one hour is thy judgment come.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The lament is most emphatic in the Greek by the repetition of the definite article: literally, "the city, the great, Babylon the
city, the mighty”. These kings stand afar off trying to avoid the doom of the system on themselves, but in reality they only
postpone it. Their tap of produce and finance is turned off. The entire world is plunged into economic collapse in an hour
just as the Western Roman Empire was in the years after 410AD when Rome’s power was broken in the West. There
was no money system left, no trade and commerce with other lands, and the great villas of Romano-Britain and other
places fell into ruins as the barbarian hordes swept in. Within fifty years people had gone from living in heated homes to
mud walled huts again. Cash economies were replaced by subsistence and barter in a decade.
Again, the suddenness and swiftness of the judgment is emphasised in the phrase "one hour". cf. Jeremiah 51:8; Isaiah
13:19-22. With the collapse of centralized computer based economic systems all modern commerce ceases, for none
can guarantee loans and letters of credit any more. With the collapse of the super-cities that make up commercial
Babylon the insurance companies collapse, for none can pay out on the damage that is total and shortly will be world
wide. Every thing is gone in a moment that creates modern business and commerce.
APPLICATION
The person who trusts in the things of this world, however stable and strong they may seem, is trusting in something that
one day will be destroyed. Our whole world economy runs on computing systems and electronic transfers of funds to
cover transactions. The World Financial Crisis of 2007-2012 showed up just how much of this system is built on
corruption and fraud. It has been stitched up again with corruption still at its heart. There is nothing behind any world
currency except “agreement” to pay value agreed. No currency is backed by anything solid!
If one is closely associated with an apostate system, or anti God group, you may try and distance yourself from them but
you will also be judged if you remain associated. Do not get too close to evil people, or their economic systems, for if you
share their goods and pleasures, you will share their judgment.
This happened to many Christian organizations in the financial collapse 2007-2012, for many had foolishly placed their
saved funds into “managed funds” run by corrupt bankers, and so all the Lord’s money was lost! When we join together
with corrupt men to make money with them we run the risk of losing it all, and that is what happened through these
years. No believing organization should have “managed funds” – we should have all funds working for ministry in an
active and concrete way.
18:11 And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their merchandise any
more:
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Greek word for merchants “emporos” is the word from where we get the English word emporium.
Merchants - The reason for their weeping is clear, "because no one buys their cargoes any more" – the money supply is
gone. The lust of these people means their merchandise and material wealth is at the top of their value system; morality
is irrelevant to them. The total collapse of Babylon means their values and “assets” end up at the very bottom, with "the
bodies and souls of men", (literal rendering of verse 13).
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Here the businesses have lost their monopoly which they enjoyed as a part of the relationship between them and the
politico-religious system. They have traded in men’s bodies for profit and they have lost all they gained in an hour.
The imperial grain fleet which transported the grain from Egypt represented the largest form of transport in the ancient
world. They ceased to trade in a few years after ancient Rome fell. If the great super tankers of today are eliminated, the
cities and industries of the world will run out of vital oil in a matter of months. If there is not the money to pay for the ships
and their crews, they will simply be tied up, and the same result will flow to its bankrupt conclusion for the modern
economies. World wide economic depression will be the result.
No matter how great the need, if there is no money to pay for things, and/or no means of transferring value for goods, the
goods are not supplied. The Antichrist claimed to be able to solve this problem, and in these last judgments, the Lord
demonstrates by his judgments that the Anti-Christ cannot solve anything.
MONEY
APPLICATION
The love of money is the root of all evil. There is nothing wrong with money, but the fraudulent use of money in these
latter days will make all who handle it corrupt. Believers will need to be using a barter system through this entire period
to obtain the food they need, or have stored it beforehand. EFTPOS transactions will be traceable and those who
haven’t been certified as worshipping the beast will be identified, rounded up, and if they refuse worship executed.
The Lord says to Church Age believers not to worry about your provisions as he will look after you if you are caught
unawares, but the believers of this latter day have been warned, and need to have taken precautions and be ready for
these darker days towards the end of the Tribulation period. The Lord is omnipotent however, and if he feeds the birds
he will look after those who look to Him in that day if they are unable to feed themselves. Matthew 6:19-34.
Often in times of great tragedy unbelievers are caused to focus on the real questions in life and consider the claims of
the Lord Jesus Christ on their life, and learn what it is to walk in faith and obedience.
18:12 The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and
silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious
wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, 18:13 And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense,
and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and
souls of men.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This focuses on the luxury trade that is the prime trade commodity product in these last days. Nero fiddled while Rome
burned, but the evil wealthy people of these latter days are playing millionaires and enjoying luxury goods while the entire
world burns! None of these things mentioned here can be eaten, except the sheep for fine wool, and their race horses,
and so finally the people who have all the wealth are left starving to death surrounded by wealth they cannot use. They
are indeed judged by their own value system.
Thyine wood is from North Africa and is used for the production of high quality tables and furniture. There is a wide
ranging trade in luxuries in the ancient world with:
[a] Gold Ivory and Thyime wood imported from North Africa
[b] Precious stones and pearls from India
[c] Purple dye from Phoenicia
[d] Silk and Cinnamon from China
[e] The other spices from Arabia.
[f] Slaves from subjugated people, or in the latter days, people who have been tricked into the factories of the wealthy
and are indebted for their return fares home and accommodation.
[h] Human lives were those reserved for gladiatorial contests for the amusement of the populace and included Christians
as well as slaves. The greatest time of slavery was during the Roman Empire yet the Word of God does not teach about
freeing the slaves – Refer the EBCWA study on the book of Philemon. Slavery may lead people to the Lord, and at
times in John’s day the pastor was the slave and the congregation may be masters. True equality between men is only
in Christ Jesus, and slavery was abolished by the Christian Empire in the fourth century. Slavery could be used in John’s
day to protect the gospel message, but by this future day evil is dominant and all forms of slavery are to be eliminated by
God’s Judgment.
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“Ktenos” beast of burden rather than “therion”, a wild beast or “zoon” a living creature which is also translated beast.
“Probaton” translated sheep for fine/expensive wool, is used only here in the Book of the Revelation which has majored
on “Arnion” or lamb.
“Rheda” is a travelling wagon rather than “Harma” which appears in Revelation 9:9 this being a war chariot with two
wheels. It could also refer to a sports car today, rather than a business van/truck.
APPLICATION
We see that North Africa is a centre of productive industry/primary good supply in the period in which John writes. The
trade is clearly shown as world wide in the latter days. Rome was the ancient centre for trade at the time of John, and no
merchant marine existed like that of Rome for a thousand years after its fall. A second century writer estimated Rome’s
imports from China, India and Arabia only as 30 million denarii.
Two features regarding this list should be noted; first, most of the items are luxury items, and second, apparently these
merchants will be trafficking in people as well as things. Slavery and indentured service by labourers, makes its return in
the last days. We have this occurring already in our world today, with slavery back in the sex trade, and indentured
labourers being used in large numbers in the “sweat shop” factories of the American and European economy, in Asia, the
Middle East, and even within Europe.
Our society is rapidly becoming more conscious of "resources" and even animals, than they are of human beings made
in the image of God. James 3:9. Our value systems are starting to skew in the direction that we see here. It is an
interesting twist of godless humanism that it always degrades and devalues the individuals worth over time, speaking
only of "masses" of people in the end.
There will always be slavery and poverty in the world until the Millennium. It is not legislation but regeneration which
frees people. Matthew 26:9-11. While these evils cannot be abolished by our preaching today, they must be opposed,
for they are satanic, and our opposition sends the right message to unsaved mankind about the biblical teaching. The
majority will ignore us, but those that hear these biblical truths may later recall them, find the Bible in the ruins and be
saved.
18:14 And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and
goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all. 18:15 The merchants of these things,
which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing, 18:16 And
saying, Alas, alas that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold,
and precious stones, and pearls! 18:17 a For in one hour so great riches is come to nought.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here all forms of business goes down into complete economic collapse, for the supply of money is gone, or worthless
without any banking infrastructure left.
“Opora” meaning full fruit and is normally associated with the full fruit bearing season of the northern autumn. This word
is used uniquely here in Scripture. The normal word translated fruit is “Karpos”
This picture of merchants mourning over a great commercial centre is taken from the description of the collapse of the
great trading empire of Tyre in Isaiah 23:1-8, Ezekiel 27. Like the kings of the earth the merchants of the earth will stand
afar off to watch the ascending smoke of New Babylon.
Here Babylon is seen as a woman who was richly attired with all the trappings of wealth, of rulership and wanting for
nothing, and yet so vulnerable to destruction she didn’t see coming, or pretended would never come. In our own nation
we have seen how vulnerable a modern city is to sudden natural catastrophe with our city of Christchurch being shaken
by a 7.1 Richter Scale earthquake and many people’s livelihoods being snuffed out in a few minutes as business
collapsed overnight in some areas. A volcano or earthquake can end an economy’s activity, let alone the super
volcanoes and super/mega quakes being described as unfolding upon the world in this section of Revelation.
APPLICATION
The people have lusted in their souls, and the production, or fully ripe fruit, of their self centred labours, has disappeared
all of a sudden, and for ever. This evil industrial system is to be swept away. We must remember these verses as we try
to bring biblical rationale to our own economies today. We must see that there is no redemption for our world systems,
only God’s destruction.
God will replace all we have built; let us not be attached to any of it! 2 Peter 3:10-18.
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As they have been concentrating on this lust for power and riches it is a huge shock when it disappears. Again the
merchants are seen weeping because a system is destroyed which made them rich. In a time when men's minds and
souls cannot be pierced by the love of God or the fear of eternal judgment, men can still weep over the loss of their
fortunes. It is why they are being judged.
In life you can have the decking of wealth one day and be destitute the next because of change of circumstances.
Material wealth is nothing; spiritual wealth is everything.
18:17 b And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood
afar off, 18:18 And cried when they saw the smoke of her burning, saying, What city is like unto this great city!
18:19 And they cast dust on their heads, and cried, weeping and wailing, saying, Alas, alas that great city,
wherein were made rich all that had ships in the sea by reason of her costliness! for in one hour is she made
desolate.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here the transportation business associated with world trade goes down into collapse. Shipmasters - Here the
transportation industry weeps -and for the same reasons. They are described as those - "who make their living by the
sea." Yet the event that brings their grief is brief moments in time before they will stand themselves before the judgment
of God, and they can only think of "making a living" and not eternal life in Christ.
The kings in verse 10 in their lament say, "In one hour is thy judgment come”, whereas the merchants in this verse 17
say, "In one hour so great riches is come to nought". Their grief is totally self centred. All those connected with
commerce on the seas also lament over the destruction of New Babylon. The imperfect tense of Krazo shows that they
kept on crying out.
The merchants had good reason to mourn as they were now out of business with some accounts undoubtedly unpaid
and therefore they will in a short time be bankrupt, but so will the entire trading world. This is economic collapse on a
world scale, but that is only the beginning.
Their lament likewise is not for the city and its dead people, but for their wealth that had been derived from shipping
goods to and from that great place, or using its banking advantages. All of this is now come to an end. The sight of the
twin towers of the trade centre collapsing in an hour on 11 th September 2001 on the waterfront in New York was a
graphic illustration of this terrible scene, but what we read of here is the collapse of entire cities into rubble.
APPLICATION
John stresses the fact that, they "became rich by her wealth." This chapter, along with James 5, is the greatest
condemnation in Scripture of a materialistic and spiritually blind world. Christ warned against coveting the wealth of this
world. Matthew 6:19-21.
Many people, when faced with a tragedy, or a massive change in life, fail to cope with the situation and become
introspective or hysterical. These wealthy and wicked people are totally self absorbed in the whole catastrophe. The
human cost to others is irrelevant to them; they only see their own pain and distress at their loss of luxury.
In the Christian life problems are opportunities to re focus on the Lord, and get our eyes off self. The fruit of pressure for
the genuine believer is prayer to the Lord; the fruit of pressure to the pagan or make-believer is cursing and blasphemy.
For the Christian the Lord will provide all our needs through the riches of grace in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 1:7, 2:7, 3:816, Philippians 4:19, Colossians 1:27. The Christian is able to help people in tragic circumstances by pointing to the only
solution to man’s problems; that is through relationship wit the Lord by means of regeneration. In these terrible last days,
the believers who are in hiding in the wild places of the world need to look to Jesus only, for the day of his arrival is near.
THE REJOICING OF HEAVEN. VERSES 20-24
18:20 Rejoice over her, thou heaven, and ye holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you on her.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here is the command to rejoice because this is divine judgement, and the believer can rejoice in all the Lord does. With
violence at its heart there will be destruction of the new Babylon/Rome, and rejoicing over her destruction in heaven
straight away. The reaction of the saints and angels in heaven is exactly the opposite to the wicked people of the earth.
This shows the vast chasm separating divine viewpoint from human viewpoint (cf. Isaiah 55:6-13).
We should note that the severity of God's judgment was pronounced on behalf of the saints, apostles, and prophets.
They both warned of the evils of worldliness and suffered persecution and martyrdom because of it. When Rome was
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sacked by the barbarians after their acceptance of Christendom, Augustine from North Africa explained that the judgment
was due to Rome’s past sins, and a church too weak to avert judgment in its own time. He was only half right. Rome was
sacked because of its present state in apostasy, and the new-Babylon/Rome will be destroyed for the same reasons.
The message of the apostle is, “God has judged your case against the evil city”. New Rome/Babylon had slain the saints,
Revelation 17:6; now God slays New Rome-Babylon. Here is the final answer to the plea of the martyrs in Revelation
6:9-11.
APPLICATION
The second half of this verse means that God convicted Rome by applying to that city the judgment of its own law courts
against the Christians. Exactly as they had judged, so they were judged! There is rejoicing by the prophets, apostles, and
saints, because the destruction of Babylon marks the near return of the Lord Jesus Christ. The days are now very short
to the Lord’s actual return.
The world weeps, for material things are the only things worldly have. When these have been destroyed, all is lost. That
attitude which the believers ought to have toward Babylon has also been stated in verse 4. They should come out from
that system and not partake of its evils and corruption. When they are fully separated in their hearts they will not feel the
pain of the city’s destruction.
18:21 And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast it into the sea, saying, Thus with
violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The millstone represents the crushing of things. The desolation will be complete and there will be tremendous shock
around the world when they see that this powerful force in the world is no more. Babylon is pictured as a millstone cast
into the sea. cf. Matthew 18:6; Mark 9:42; Luke 17:2.
The millstone of apostate religion and commercialism will be destroyed by Christ, the "Stone cut without hands”. Daniel
2:45. In Jeremiah 51:63-64, the prophet is commanded to hurl a stone into the Euphrates and to declare that Babylon
would sink never to rise again.
APPLICATION
In our present situation a massive earthquake in Tokyo, or off the east or west coast of the United States, could bring the
whole fabric of the world economy falling into ruin. This symbolic act of the angel represents a destruction that is total,
which ensures the once powerful forces of the wicked, will be like a stone cast into the sea; they will be found no more.
When God brings judgment on a group or nation it is final, complete, and totally devastating.
18:22 And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in
thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone
shall be heard no more at all in thee;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The musicians find themselves out of business, as do the craftsmen and artisans, all of whom lived off the religious
system and its corrupt officials. Manufacturing in the form of the millstone (grain grinding) goes into decline as there is a
shortage of grains world wide due to drought and the collapse of the money system.
The ghastly silence of Babylon here indicates complete devastation, cf Isaiah 13:20-22. There is no music, no worker,
no machinery, no light, no happiness ("voice of the bridegroom and bride") shall be found in Babylon any more. Their
culture and nationhood is over.
APPLICATION
Included in the judgment is the entertainment world, the craftsmen, and the factory workers, amongst others. These
things are good in their places. Only when Christ is pushed aside for them do they become an evil obsession.
Notes
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18:23 And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the bridegroom and of the
bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth; for by thy
sorceries were all nations deceived.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The light of the candle is the entertainment business. Marriage and social occasions no longer occur, because the core
of the nation is gone; its people devastated or dead. The only people alive are the believers from the city, who have long
since left it and fled into the wilderness around it. Babylon is said to have deceived the nations by her sorcery.
Sorceries is the word used to cover all sort of drug assisted demonism in action, and all the “action” is now over, their
fake “joy” over forever. The Greek word is “pharmakeia”, and refers to drug abuse to instil a sense of unreality. This world
system is guilty of all the blood of saints and martyrs from the time of righteous Abel to the last person that falls under the
Antichrist. cf. Matthew 23:35.
APPLICATION
Ecumenical religion has gained control of all of the world’s peoples by this time in the Great Tribulation Period, and the
world is reliant on it for its spiritual centre until it is destroyed. The hollowness of the ecumenical system is seen by all the
people, but they cling to its shattered deception until they are all swept away with it.
Here we are told that her merchants were "great men of the earth". So, in essence, its greatness continued since the
time of its founder Nimrod of whom the Bible states was "a mighty one in the earth". Genesis 10:8.
18:24 And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
God dealt with those stained with the blood of the innocent and the judgment upon all who have hated the truth and the
people of the truth is full and final.
Religion over the centuries has always attacked the truth and persecuted or martyred believers. The worst persecutions
against genuine faith have always come from organized religion. The murder of the genuine believers in the Middle Ages
and through the Renaissance was by the leaders of the Roman Catholic Church. Organized religion has more blood on
its hands than paganism.
APPLICATION
Religion has been responsible for the death of millions of believers. Any believer who follows this system of religious
error causes themself a lot of misery, and their compromise with evil will lead to their destruction eventually. Believers
have been long warned to separate from such organizations.
CONCLUSION
The triumph of God is therefore witnessed not only by the scattering of the unfinished tower of Genesis 11, but by the
destruction of the harlot of Revelation chapter 17, and the annihilation of the religious-political headquarters of
wickedness in the city of New Rome-Babylon in chapter 18.
The reason is twofold; New Rome-Babylon deceived the nations, and New Rome-Babylon killed the saints.
SEVEN INDICTMENTS AGAINST BABYLON
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Arrogance. Isaiah. 13:19; 14:4; Jeremiah 50:29-34; Revelation 18:7-8)
Anti-Semitism. Isaiah 13:1; 14:2-22; Jeremiah 51:24-25
Hedonism. Isaiah 47:8-11; Revelation 18:3-19
Sorcery (drug abuse). Isaiah 47:12-13; Revelation. 18:23
Idolatry. Jeremiah 50:2; 51:47; Revelation 13:14; 16:2
Spiritual Adultery. Revelation 14:8; 17:1-7; 18:3, 9
Persecution of the true Saints. Revelation 18:6, 24
She is weighed in the balances of God and like Belshazzar of old is found wanting. Daniel 5:22-30.
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CHAPTER NINETEEN
INTRODUCTION
When we put our faith in Christ, all of life is turned into a table of blessing. Spiritual growth leads us to ever greater
delights in the plan of God. The "cup" of our soul is filled to overflowing by the grace of God. To the contrary, unbelief
brings a banquet of self-induced misery and the good things of life which we hunger for become a snare and rob us of
abundant life.
In this first section, we see the marriage supper of Christ. This event follows the cleansing of the bride at the Judgment
Seat of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15). Here all human good is purged away leaving only those things performed in the
power of the Holy Spirit which have earned eternal rewards (the Crowns). These divine works are at this time rewarded,
and these rewards make up the "adorning" of the bride. Revelation 19:7-8; 21:2, 11. This is represented by gold, silver
and precious stones in the Corinthian and Revelation Passages.
First we see the heavenly chorus in verses 1-7, which is really a confirmation of the call to rejoice of Revelation 18:20.
Four times the chorus shouts "hallelujah," giving all praise to God. There are four reasons given for these praises.
[a] .
God has avenged His saints - verses 1-2.
[b]
God has fully judged the world - verse 3.
[c]
God has concluded the angelic conflict with victory - verse 4-5.
[d]
The King and His bride reign - verses 6-7.
THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE LAMB - VERSES 1-10
19:1 And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and
glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: 19:2 For true and righteous are his judgments: for he
hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his
servants at her hand.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have the heavenly response to the victory of the Lord Jesus Christ. They say Hallelujah many times over.
The word Hallelujah is a transliteration of the Hebrew word which means, “Praise ye the Lord”. Fifteen of the Psalms
begin or end with this word. The Great Hallel Psalms, which is a title for Psalms 104-109, are sung chiefly at the feasts
of the Passover and Tabernacles.
It is also a phrase that is used frequently in the Psalms, cf, Psalms 146-150, a strong command to praise the Lord. In the
Psalms it appears in the piel Hebrew tense, which is the strongest form of command to worship. The chorus attributes a
number of things to the God of Grace. As believers we rightly sing praises to the glory of God.
We see that there is a constant action of corrupting people on the earth by religion as shown in the imperfect tense of
“phtheiro”. Religion and its fake worship is strongly contrasted with the whole hearted Hallelujah chorus of the saints.
The reason for praise is that God's judgment is just as much a manifestation of divine integrity as His blessings. cf
Psalm. 89:14 and Psalm. 97:2. Vindication for the righteous included just punishments against their killers. Deuteronomy
32:43, Psalm 79:10, Jeremiah 51:48-49.
CHRIST'S DEITY AND US
APPLICATION
We should worship the Lord for what he has done for us. He has provided for us in many ways, our salvation and He is
full of glory and honour. Often people tend to downgrade the Lord, who is God, to the level of a friend, or even elder
brother status, not recognising or appreciating Him as the awesome God, our Creator, and Preserver. Let us not forget
who we worship! Remember Jesus words, John 15:7-14.
From the same righteousness and justice proceeds either blessing or cursing. It is faith that makes the difference and
prepares the saint to receive the blessings of God. And because they have faith, God avenges His persecuted and
martyred saints, bring judgment upon the Babylonian system, the Satanic counterfeit religion of Chapters 17 and 18.
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19:3 And again they said, Alleluia And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. 19:4 And the four and twenty
elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. 19:5
And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small
and great.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This quotation comes from the description of the fall of Edom’s leading city in Isaiah 34:10, but naturally applies to all
cities that practice such wickedness, including the world system of New Rome-Babylon. Isaiah 66:24. The Old
Testament pictures God enthroned, both in heaven, and above the cherubim on the ark as his temple, including the four
living creatures in Isaiah 6, and Ezekiel 1.
In the book of Revelation, as in Daniel, we see that the struggle of Satan against God affects the angelic realm just as it
does the earth. There is a longing in heaven for this war of angels to be ended (Revelation 12:7-9; Jude 8-9). It is ended
by the Lord’s Second Advent and it is ended with victory.
APPLICATION
The praise here is in terms of eternal judgment. Once again, it is the same just God who provides eternal judgment in the
Lake of Fire for the Devil and all who follow him, just as it is He who gives eternal life to all who will trust in Christ.
The elder and living creatures who represent the highest sphere of angelic rank and authority call on the redeemed of
earth to join in the victory song. In order to respond in a meaningful way the more we know about God, and what He has
done, the more real and powerful our praise for Him can be.
Here we have a universal call to worship God. Do we praise the Lord now in a passionate and Biblical manner?
PRAISE
19:6 And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of
mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. 19:7 Let us be glad and rejoice, and
give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The phrase "Lord God Almighty" occurs ten times in the New Testament. Of these, only 2 Corinthians 6:18 is outside the
Revelation. (cf. Revelation 1:8; 4:8, 11:17, 15:3, 16:7,14, 19:6,15, 21:22).
The word “pantokrator” literally means "Ruler of all things." The Old Testament frequently celebrates God reigning as
Creator, Psalm 97:1, Deliverer, Exodus 15:18, and in the end times, Isaiah 24:23, 52:7, Micah 4:7.
“Doxa” translated honour, but should be glory, c.f. “time” honour in Revelation 19:1. The Lord’s Bride, the Church is
complete and purified of all old works of the flesh and arrayed in eternal crowns giving prise and glory to the Lord who
saved her and blessed her eternally.
The great celebration banquet in heaven may go for seven years! this is a party to be at, and all the church age saints
are there fellowshipping together with the Lord. It ends as they all rise to join the Lord on his triumphal return to the earth
to rule for his Millennial Kingdom.
In Isaiah 25:6-7, God announces a great banquet for all peoples as well as deliverance from death in verse 8. In verse 9
of that chapter God’s people celebrate their salvation using the words, “Let us rejoice and be glad”.
SUPERIORITY OF CHRIST
In (Hebrews Chapter 1) we have eight areas of superiority of Jesus Christ. As angels are the highest created form of
being, Jesus Christ is compared to them.
1.
Superior in Name. (Hebrews 1:4).
2.
Superior in relationship (Hebrews 1:5).
3.
Superior at the Second Advent (Hebrews 1:6).
4.
Superior in His ministry (Hebrews i:7,8).
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5.
Superior in appointment (Hebrews 1:9).
6.
Superior as Creator (Hebrews 1:10).
7.
Superior in character (Hebrews 1:11).
8.
Superior in His position (Hebrews 1:13).
APPLICATION
Here the entire heavenly chorus, made up of elect angels and saved mankind, sing praise together, which is a preview of
what we will be doing when we are in His presence. It is also a reminder that when we die we are absent from our body
and “face to face” with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:6-9. There is no “soul sleep”. This event occurs before the Lord’s return
and all the saints of the past ages are in heaven by this point.
The marriage supper of the Lamb ends with the Second Advent, and leads into the Millennium, which lasts for a
thousand years. It will be quite a party and have a great ending in the Lord’s return to the earth in glory. No wonder we
will rejoice and be glad. The Jewish and other believers alive at the end of the Tribulation period will enjoy 1000 years
upon the earth of perfect environment, and we will likely continue to enjoy a party in heaven, and the entire surviving
portion of this present universe will rejoice through this time.
CONCLUDING THE SECTION ON THE MARRIAGE SUPPER,
Verses 8-10 give us three important teachings of Scripture.:[a] The rewards of spiritual production - verse 8
[b] The Blessing of Trusting God's Word - verse 9
[c] True and False Worship is contrasted - verse 10
19:8 And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the
righteousness of saints.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
We are told that it is" given" to her to clothe herself in fine linen. The word connotes another gift of grace. By means of
God's grace, the bride, which is the church universal, Ephesians. 5:32, 2 Corinthians 11:2, receives righteous shining
robes of royalty. All we have is by grace and our eternal blessings are gracious and wonderful forever. Truly the
fellowship of the Lord is grace upon grace without end.
But these linen garments are called, "the righteous acts of the saints". We are dressed by the Lord in heaven, so that our
resurrection bodies wear the dress that is appropriate as priests of the most high God forever. Pure linen was mandatory
as dress for the High Priest entering the Holy of Holies. [Leviticus 16:4] These dresses shine like translucent light itself,
and it may be that the linen is made of light itself. There is glory here beyond words and present imagination.
APPLICATION
The Lord provides for us on earth and will also totally provide for us in heaven. Therefore, the bride will wear in eternity
the rewards for the spiritual production of the body of Christ on earth.
The bride wears two things that picture reward for production; white robes cf. Revelation 3:4, and gold, silver, and
precious stones. 1 Corinthians. 3:12. Thus, when we see the church in heaven, she is represented by these things, cf Revelation 19:8, 21:2, 9-11.
19:9 And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And
he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is an invitation to earthly service, rewarded by earthly, heavenly, and eternal blessings.
Matthew 5:1-12. The invitation is open to "whosoever will" accept the message and accept the Saviour and Lord. When
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finally time is done, the truth of God's promises will be fully realised by all, but for many this will be the time of the
greatest regrets. For those of us who have received Jesus and walked with Him in service it will be a time to reap all that
was sown. We are all urged to worship and serve the Lord with a whole hearted devotion for the Lord will richly reward
his people.
Here we have another of the blessings in the book of the Revelation.
APPLICATION
How great then will be the blessing to those who made obedience to the Word of God their priority of life.
The Church Age believer as a member of the bride of Christ will be joined by Old Testament and Tribulation saints in the
full and final reality of what God has promised all along as "blessing" for all the saints. Finally there is absolute unity
between all the saved peoples of mankind. It is unity in blessedness in Christ Jesus.
We will be truly blessed to attend the supper, as only believers will attend it, and so there is no blot upon the feast; it is a
time of total joy, with no negative emotion, thought or person to discolour the beauty. Evil is gone! Evil is spoken of by
false religion as a needed opposite, but the Bible gives the truth; evil is an aberration and it will be eliminated, and the
rejoicing on that day will be great.
19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellowservant, and
of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of
prophecy.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
God reveals to us here that even the aged Apostle was a man "subject to like passions" as we are. It is encouraging to
see the great apostle John was a man just like us and we can serve as he did by walking in the power of the same Holy
Spirit that empowered and directed his steps.
Apparently overcome by the wonder of things revealed, he is tempted to Worship the teaching angel. We are not to
worship any angelic being. Many believers are seeing angelic beings today, and some of these beings are accepting
worship, and this is a clear “fruit”, or piece of evidence, of their satanic origin! Angels are servants of God and will never
accept worship from mankind. Be alert brethren, the enemy’s deceptions are beginning to become dramatic.
The infinitive mood of proskuneo indicates that it was John’s intention to worship the angel, but he is stopped by the
angel.
APPLICATION
How often those who are taught in the Word have a tendency to "worship" the one who teaches them. The rebuke of the
angel involves valuable instruction. First, he says he is a "fellow-servant," a co-worker in God's plan, just as any other
prophet or teacher. No teacher, or any angel is to be worshipped. All are to be tested for their genuineness and truth and
while they may be respected, they are simply fellow servants. God alone is to be worshipped.
Second, he warns John to worship only God, explaining that the very life and breath of all prophecy is the witness of
Jesus Christ.
Prophecy is history written in advance. Therefore, whether we look back to the Old Testament or Gospels, or ahead in
the Revelation, the focus of all Scripture is Jesus Christ. It is his person, power and plan that is being illustrated by
events, and it is He alone who is to be worshipped. This is important because the key to every passage of Scripture is
what it reveals about the person and work of our Lord and Saviour.
THE SUPPER ENDS AND THE LORD JESUS RETURNS TO EARTH AS THE TRUE GOD. VERSES. 11-21
Again there are two main parts.
[a]
Verses 11-16 show, as if to amplify the angel's warning of the previous verse, that Jesus Christ is also the key
to all judgment. This is taught in John. 3:16-19, and other places. The Tribulation is brought to an abrupt close
by the Second Advent of Christ.
[b]
Verses 17-21 show us the events immediately following the Second Advent. This section helps amplify the
figures of Revelation 14:14-20. This is the fourth time we see heaven opened in the Revelation. Revelation 4:1,
11:19, 15:5.
There are several striking things said here of the victorious Christ.
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[a] His mount - verse 11
[b] His names - verse 11
[c] His armies - verse 14
[d] His weapon - verse 15
His Names. In Scripture, one's name represents His person or character. Four names are given here:
[a] Faithful and True verse 11
[b] The Unknown Name verse. 12
[c] The Word of God verse 13.
[d] King of Kings, Lord of Lords verses. 16.
19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and
True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Krino”, translated, to judge, in this verse compares with “dikaioma” a judicial sentence in verse 8. He comes now to
judge; the days of grace are over for unsaved mankind. “Opened” is in the perfect tense which means that it is opened
with permanent results.
White horses were used for victory parades. They were very rare with the normal horses being grey. In the ancient world,
when a general came in victory, he rode a white charger, usually a stallion. Antichrist had his counterfeit of this in
Revelation 6:2. On the other hand, if a king or general came in peace, he rode a mule or donkey. Thus Christ first came
riding the ass at His so-called "Triumphal Entry". He was rejected and crucified as the Prince of Peace. However, He will
return as the victorious Lion of Judah - this time in judgment – and so the white horse this second time.
He is always called the “faithful and true” one. All he said has been fulfilled as all he said was and remains true. He said
he would return and he does in power and with determination to judge evil mankind.
The phrase “Makes war” is the present active indicative of “polemeo”. Millions of men under arms are killed at the
Second Advent and it is done by the Lord Jesus Christ for they are arrayed in battle against his people to destroy them.
They intend to kill God’s people right up to the moment they are killed by the word of his mouth. The creator who spoke
the universe into existence speaks these evil men out of existence.
CHRIST'S FAITHFULNESS
APPLICATION
It should be noted that only humanity can sit on a horse as deity is everywhere. The Lord Jesus Christ is coming back as
the God-Man. His hypostatic union is personal and eternal.
He is called here “Faithful and True”. Jesus bore the sins of the world and warned that apart from Him, no man could
come to the Father. John 3:16, 36, 14:6. He is faithful to His word, both for blessing and cursing, and His own integrity
demands the following judgment.
God is faithful to us right now even though we may be fickle. 2 Timothy 2:12-15. Our response to God ought to be
further study of his Word and total obedience to its commands.
19:12 His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no
man knew, but he himself.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Lord here is wearing a diadem rather than a stephanos crown. The diadem was worn by royal birth-right whereas
the stephanos was one given as a reward. He is called here, “The Unknown Name”. The flaming eyes, as in Revelation
1:14, speak of righteous indignation and wrath. He is crowned with many diadems as King of all Kings.
The name written is often used for a personality. This is a side of the Lord’s personality that the unbeliever does not
necessarily understand today and people today are often very shocked to read these words out of their context. For
those who have read our way through to this point in the book, we can see why he comes now to judge.
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We see that the verb written is in the perfect tense, which means that it was written in the past with effects that go on
forever. This is the Jesus the world does not know, but will get to know on that day, for they have rejected his gift of
grace. Of this Jesus, Paul says that if the rulers of this world had known Him, they would never have crucified Him. 1
Corinthians. 2:8. Therefore, this is referred to as His “unknown name”.
PROPHETIC PSALMS
APPLICATION
This also relates to the name of Revelation 2:17, given to everyone who overcomes by faith.
This name is a personal identification between each person and God.
This is something that speaks of ones own private history with God.
19:13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The vesture is a robe worn by a chiliarch or Roman leader of a thousand men. He has the mantle of a military
commander and He is dealing with the military threat to his people in and around Jerusalem. Dipped is the word “bapto”,
from which we get the word baptised.
Here he is called “The Word of God”. This is John's favourite title for Christ. John 1:1-4, and 1 John 1:1. The Living
Word is revealed in the written Word, and the written Word tells us in Isaiah 63:1-3, that at the Second Advent the
garments of Christ will be stained with the blood of His enemies. Remember these people have persisted in their hatred
of God’s people and are trying to kill them right up until the moment they die at the word of Jesus.
“Logos” is the Greek name for word but it means more than that. Aristotle came up with the concept of the unmoved
mover, Descartes tried the concept but came up with the principle of I think therefore I am. Man is not capable of the
concept of thinking back before time but God inspired John in John Chapter 1 to write about the Word and the Word
being with God and being God. We worship the creator of space and time! He truly has the entire world in his hands.
APPLICATION
Here for a unique time in history the commanding general of an army does all the fighting, as evidenced by the blood of
his enemies on his vesture; his army is with him as silent witnesses to the justice of his actions against evil men.
Jesus Christ personally destroys his enemies to set up His kingdom on earth. It may be that at this time the believers
with him are personally able to arrest and incarcerate all the demons of Satan, but we will only be 100% sure of this
when we get our orders on the day. We personally look forward to this day and hearing the Lord’s orders for his
triumphal return.
19:14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and
clean.
Analysis and Background
The imperfect tense of Akoloutheo shows that the heavenly army of all the believers of history kept on following the Lord
Jesus Christ. This army is made up of the saints of earth who follow Him wherever He goes
(John. 14:3, 1 Thessalonians 4:17).
The robes have been identified in verses eight with reward for divine production.
It is noted that the word for clothed in this verse is different from the word for clothed in the case of the Lord Jesus Christ
in verse 13.
SECOND ADVENT
APPLICATION
Therefore, those once scorned by this world, the believers, will return with Him in glory and power.
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This army apparently does no actual fighting against those who persecuted and insulted them; it is the commanding
general that does all the fighting against evil men.
19:15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them
with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 19:16 And he
hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The weapon of Christ is the sword of His mouth. He leads, rules, judges by the Word of God. The Word is compared to
a sword in Hebrews. 4:12. There is a difference, however, in the two passages.
When the Word of God is seen as
the sword of the believer, it is called a "machaira." This was the short two-edged sword made famous by the Roman
legions. It was easy to handle, could thrust, and cut both ways with little difficulty. This represents the adaptability and
usefulness of the Word of God to our every need.
Here, however, the word for sword is "rhomphaia." This was the great Thracian broadsword. It took a man of great size
and strength to wield this great six foot long sword. It was primarily a weapon intended to do the job with one mighty
sweep.
What a picture of the ease with which Christ will defeat His enemies! One mighty blow from the Word of His mouth will
execute total judgment on the millions of the armies of Antichrist and unbelieving mankind.
This will be the "baptism of fire" pictured in Revelation 20:14 and spoken of in Matthew 3:10-12. With this sword He will
both "smite" (judge) and "rule" (literally, shepherd) the nations, as unbelievers are cast off the earth in judgment and
believers alone are left to enter the Kingdom Age.
Here he is called “King of Kings, Lord of Lords”. This name speaks of the absolute authority and sovereign power of
Jesus Christ. All power is His in heaven and earth. He is the source of all authority. Based on this authority, He judges
the earth as its rightful King and Ruler. He alone has the right to judge the earth.
It was common practice for a victorious Roman general to wear a banner on his thigh and John sees this additional
symbol of victory in the Lord’s appearance. The word “written” is in the perfect tense showing that it was written in the
past with a result that it stays written for ever.
APPLICATION
When the Prince of Peace comes back he makes war to clean up the earth, as after the evils of the Tribulation, that is
the only way to eliminate the last remnant of determined and persistently wicked mankind. The image of the winepress is
used to show maximum destruction of the enemy.
You need to fight for freedom, and the freedom of worship and life itself in the Millennium is granted by the Lord’s total
and absolute victory here are the Second Advent. Only elimination of those determined to be evil removes the threat to
mankind from Satan and his followers.
Lord of Lords is his title of deity, and King of Kings is his title as head of humanity. Our commanding general is unique in
the fact that He is the God man, the Lord Jesus Christ. “If God be for us who can be against us?” His victory is total at
this time, but until this time we must face the reality of continued and vicious opposition from Satan and his followers.
JESUS - THE GOD-MAN
19:17 And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in
the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God; 19:18 That ye may
eat the flesh of kings, and the flesh of captains, and the flesh of mighty men, and the flesh of horses, and of
them that sit on them, and the flesh of all men, both free and bond, both small and great.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The angel standing in the sun is an angel with a very bright countenance. This deals with an invitation to the fowls of
heaven to come and feast on the carnage of Armageddon. cf Jeremiah 12:9 and Ezekiel 39:17. These birds, as we saw
above, may be angelic creatures of some sort, for they feed and eat up the bodies of millions of the men of the attacking
armies of the Anti-Christ, and that would apparently take the carrion birds of Africa and the Middle East months!
It may be however if the description of Zechariah 14 is descriptive of all the deaths, that there wouldn’t be much flesh left
on the bones, so the birds of the area would indeed be enough to polish off the last remnants of flesh from these once
great warriors of evil.
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Here we have seven categories of people; kings - the supreme rulers, captains which are army chiefs or chiliarchs, men
in charge of one thousand men, mighty men are the fit people of the armies, horses which is the army transportation,
them that sit upon them are the military commanders, the freemen and the slaves. The words “small and great” indicate
those who are unknown and those who are prominent. All sorts have stood against God and supported the Anti-Christ,
and they are all judged by the Lord in a moment.
APPLICATION
The supper denotes the time as the end of the day of the Lord’s Coming. This is the end of history as far as the
unbelievers are concerned; they are only fit for carrion birds to pick over their bones.
This certainty of final triumph and total abject defeat for the enemy will be a great encouragement to the persecuted
Christians of all ages who read this book. We must wait for this day, but we can be sure it is coming.
The slaughter that occurs here is totally impartial and totally encompassing; no unbeliever escapes to contaminate the
future Millennial Age. All unbelievers are removed, for the Lord is bringing in an era of righteousness, a new civilisation
which like the one after the Flood, will start with believers only.
19:19 And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against
him that sat on the horse, and against his army. 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet
that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and
them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. 19:21
And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his
mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The slaughter of His enemies will be the basis of the peace which will last for a thousand years in His earthly kingdom.
When He was before Pilate, Jesus said, "If my kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight". John. 18:36.
When the time comes for His kingdom to be set up, He will illustrate the principle that as long as evil exists on this earth,
there is no peace apart from total military victory over the forces of evil!
The kings of the earth are kings ruled by the Beast. The armies of these kings are concentrated around Israel and so
they are situated in the right place for their slaughter to be complete. The Greek word “Sunago” is in the perfect tense,
they have been gathered in the past, with a result that they are where the Lord wants them to be when He returns at His
Second Advent. They think that they are in control of events, but the Lord is in control and will eliminate them all.
Verse 20
“Eikon” is from which we get the English word icon. When the armies of Antichrist, Psalm 2, are destroyed, the beast
(Antichrist), and the false prophet of Revelation 13, are cast alive into the Lake of Fire. They will still be there one
thousand years later to welcome Satan himself, Revelation 20:10, for whom the Lake of Fire was created. Matthew
25:41.
The verb used to describe the action here (“beast was taken”), is in the aorist passive indicative, which indicates that the
beast received being taken at a point in time with the indicative mood the reality of this action. He is powerless to stop
the Lord’s action over him. All his pretence at power is over in a moment when he is simply taken by the Lord and cast
into the Lake of Fire. In the Greek this is “the” lake of fire rather than “a” lake of fire. This is a special place that has been
created for those who rejected the claims of the Lord their God over them and preferred the lies and evils of Satan.
Verse 21
When the Lord judges he does so thoroughly. He winnows the wheat from the chaff and the chaff is burnt with
unquenchable fire - Matthew 3:11-12. We see that the birds receive feeding as the word for feeding “chotazo” is in the
passive voice.
APPLICATION
If you think a nuclear holocaust is a horrible thing to consider, compare the description of how the enemies of Christ will
die in Isaiah 29:5-6, and Zechariah 14:12-15. From these passages it is clear there is not much flesh for the birds to
pick off the bones. As for the unbeliever, this is only the beginning of eternal damnation, as they are destined to spend
eternity in the Lake of Fire.
The word “worship” is used with a dative case; the combination of which in the Greek means divine honour whilst with
the accusative it means to do worship or obeisance to another. The dative case is used for the worship of the beast in
Revelation 13:4, 16:2, and this verse indicating that they worshipped him as god and have receive the payment for their
false worship.
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The slaughter is complete and total. The earth has been cleansed of a great evil and the wedding supper of the Lamb is
about to recommence and in some form run forever.
CHRIST AND ANTICHRIST
CONCLUSION
During any time in history there will be two categories of people; believers and unbelievers. John 3:36.
God has manifested/shown His love (Romans. 5:8-10). He gave us everything in His Son. (John. 3:16).
Nothing was withheld from us to bring us to repentance and faith, resulting in our salvation (Titus 2:11-14).
God is willing for all to come to salvation and has provided many opportunities for the lost. 2 Peter 3:9, 1 John 1;1-2.
Yet we do well to reflect on this passage and realise that His word will not fail. His judgments will be as certain and awful
as His blessing are "above anything we can think or ask." The Lord has provided all things that mankind might be able to
face the truth and be saved, but for those who reject so great a salvation, there is only eternal damnation.
For this reason, the love of Christ must compel us 2 Corinthians 5:14 to redeem the time, for the time is short. Let us not
waste any minute to us that the Lord has given.
NOTES
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CHAPTER TWENTY
INTRODUCTION
The Millennial Reign and the Judgement Seat (Great White Throne) for Unbelievers
As a prophetic book, the Revelation looks at future history in five areas:
The Church Age. Chapters 1-3
The Church in Heaven. Chapters 4-5
The Tribulation. Chapters 6-19
The Millennium. Chapter 20
The Eternal State. Chapters 21-22
The word "millennium" is the Latin equivalent of the "thousand years" mentioned six times in this chapter.
The Millennium is also mentioned in the Old Testament including Isaiah 24:22, 23, Hosea 3:3-5.
Thus, human history begins in the Garden of Eden in perfect environment, and concludes in the Millennial Kingdom with
perfect environment; demonstrating that the issue behind sin is man's free will decisions, not his environment. It is man’s
response to things that makes him what he is, not the thing itself. Adam and Eve fell into sin in perfect environment, and
even at the end of the Millennium many people upon the earth will become part of the last great rebellion against God’s
will when Satan is released again for a short time.
In this chapter we also see the final demise of Satan, the most beautiful creature that ever came from the hand of God,
and the most persistently and determinedly evil creature ever to exist. Beauty is not the standard for goodness, but moral
will. Even after 1000 years in jail, Satan does not, upon his release, fall at the feet of Christ and worship Him; he sets out
to try to destroy the Lord’s kingdom totally by rebellion.
KINGDOM IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
THE BINDING OF SATAN. VERSES. 1-3
20:1 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his
hand.
Analysis and Background
One of the most amazing things about this time upon the earth, during the Millennial Kingdom, will be the total absence
of satanic deception and temptation.
This angel has in his possession a "chain" with which to bind Satan. Since Satan is a spirit being, this is likely a chain of
darkness, as mentioned in Jude 6. Satan is held in spiritual darkness and totally incapacitated for 1000 years.
“From heaven” is from the ultimate source of heaven; this angel has the authority of God to bind Satan, reminding us that
he is a creature, even though he deceives many into thinking he is God’s equal.
DESTINY OF SATAN
PROPHECY - CHRIST AS KING
APPLICATION
The key is the angel’s authority, and he has a chain to bind Satan. We do not know what the chain looks like but seeing
Satan’s body is composed of light and we know that angels that sinned are kept in chains of darkness it may be that this
also is a “chain of darkness”/anti-matter. 2 Peter 2:4, Jude 5-7.
There are members of the angelic realm who are more powerful than Satan, as they have the authority of God. In the
hands of God, and facing God’s anointed servants, Satan is powerless. We are said to be in the hands of God. John
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10:22-30. As God’s servants now, as we walk obediently in his called service, in the Holy Spirit’s indwelling power we are
in the place of powerfulness against Satan. In the place of Spirit filled service, we have no reason to fear Satan now, for
the Lord and the Holy Spirit, and our guardian angel are all with us, in us and around us. 1 John 2:27-28, 3:8, 18-24, 4:4,
18-19. Truly we have greater and more powerful allies than Satan can muster in his army of demons.
20:2 And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand
years,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The words "he laid hold" come from “krateo” which means a mighty grasp. Satan is violently and powerfully seized by
this angel for his thousand year wait on "death row." Because Michael is the only angel in Scripture who is reported to be
able to overpower the devil, Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1; Jude 9; Revelation 12:7, it is safe to suggest that he is this angel.
Having said this, all angelic beings in the service, and with the anointing of the Lord, are more powerful than Satan.
A few early Jewish traditions divided history into seven one thousand year periods of which the final period would be one
of peace. Peace is ushered in by the defeat and imprisonment of Satan. There is no peace with evil loose upon the earth.
Four titles are given here to describe the history and character of the arch enemy of God. He is revealed as
[a]
The dragon in Revelation 12:3-4 in relation to his revolt against God in eternity past and his great
intellect cf. Isaiah. 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:12-19.
[b]
The serpent relates him to the temptation in the garden where he appeared as “nachush” the bright
shining one in Genesis 3:1-7.
[c]
The devil means "slanderer" or "accuser" and this is his practice against God and the saints cf. Job
1:6-12; 2:1-6; Revelation 12:10.
[d]
Satan means "adversary", and shows his opposition to all that is of God.
Seeing that Adam and Eve had a perfect relationship with God in a perfect environment Satan was extremely clever to
be able to tempt the woman in such a way that she fell. In this temptation he demonstrates all these four characteristics.
THE AGE OF CHRIST OR MILLENNIUM
APPLICATION
God does not want you to try and be as smart as He is (which was Satan’s aim – Isaiah 14:12-15), but to accept your
creaturely nature, and serve as the Lord’s created and loved servants. Whilst education is very important to learn new
things, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom. Proverbs 2:1-14, 3:1-7. Genuine wisdom will also always be
characterised by humility.
Satan is extremely clever, although his pride makes him vulnerable to arrogance. For us to be absolutely sure of our
victory over him we need to ensure that we are under the control of the Holy Spirit, and never remain for a second in a
place of arrogance or pride. It is his pride that leads him to judgment, and it leads all of us into foolishness if we let it.
20:3 And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the
nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
During the Millennium, Satan is locked up in the bottomless pit (the Abyss), or Tartarus. The objective is so that he
cannot deceive the nations, which is one of his primary functions. Revelation 12:9. The Millennium is lived by all in it as
Adam and Eve lived before Satan entered into the garden, and so mankind enjoys heaven on earth for 1000 undisturbed
years.
Evil cannot directly intrude into the Millennial Kingdom, but mankind born into that time still have free will, and those born
into that time can express their own volition by refusal of worship (Zechariah 14:16-19. Satan is also the author of all
religion, so what we know today as religion is eliminated in the Millennium. There is only true and open worship of the
Lord without any of the pride filled nonsense that characterizes false religion today.
“Planao” translated deceive is in the aorist, active, subjunctive, with the active voice, showing that Satan directly does the
deceiving. The aorist tense means “at various points of time” but with the subjunctive mood the success of the deceit is
only potential, and does not indicate total success even when he is released. A few will follow after him in the end, but
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only a few. He fails to destroy man this second time also. Mankind must have their free will tested, for only genuine
believers, who want to be with God forever are to enter the eternal state.
Satan deceives individuals into thinking that man by man’s efforts alone can make a better world without Christ. Those
who swallow this stupid and arrogant thought then work for political goals that involve internationalism; these include
religious systems, but exclude genuine faith. God set up nations, Satan is always trying to set up internationalism. He
loves religion without relationship with God. He wants a blood less faith without sin or judgment. He delights in human
works that build pride, but hates grace, faith, and truth. He denies sin and evil, for he is their author!
He attacks all of the four divine institutions of Free Will, Marriage, Family, and Nations. As an integral part of the tactics
to achieve his goals, in our world today he promotes secular-atheistic education, he pushes the environmental
movements that try by man’s efforts to solve world wide problems, and pursues other strategies that encourage a belief
in what atheists describe as a humanistic “golden age”. In this way the plan of God is ignored. His total aim is to obscure
the grace, mercy, love, and salvation offer of God, by denying man’s need for a Saviour.
“Loosed” is in the aorist passive infinitive, which means that he receives release at a point of time in the future, with the
infinitive representing purpose for his release. Inspite of all his desires Satan is made to serve the purposes of God. By
his last release he will sift mankind into believers and unbelievers after the 1000 years of perfect environment, thereby
identifying those who do not wish to live God’s way, even after such a prolonged time of blessing.
COUNTERFEIT DOCTRINE
APPLICATION
The angel who casts Satan into the bottomless pit could well be Michael as mentioned above. It was he who led the elect
angels in Revelation 12:3, and also contended with Satan for the body of Moses in Jude 9. From these passages
Michael, who was the national angel of Israel Daniel 10:21, has the power to defeat Satan. All anointed servants of the
Lord have this power also through their position in Christ, but Michael has it of his position as an archangel.
When Satan is loosed at the end, man will have experienced all that God's power and grace can provide on earth.
Mankind without regenerating faith, will however still revolt against God, proving the depravity of natural man beyond the
shadow of a doubt. Revelation 20:7-9. The subjunctive mood of the verb planao, shows that if a nation/church is led by
people teaching/explaining biblical principles it will not necessarily be deceived by Satanic deceptions, such as one world
government, or the concept that there are many ways you can work to satisfy God.
The blessings of God upon nations who apply Bible truths are shown in the revival of the Assyrian empire under the
ministry of Jonah, the prosperity of the Roman Empire between 96 and 192 AD, the rise of Britain in the 19th century and
of America in the present. Even while being actively persecuted believers acted as the salt (zest and preservative) of
their nations. The decline of these nations and empires can also be seen as they depart from these principles, and move
towards Satanic concepts and idolatry, such as in the Spanish Empire and in the recent case of Nazi Germany.
Man has no hope or help without the plan, person, and power of God, and if the deception by Satan is successful then
the person so deceived will not accept salvation, and tragically spend eternity in the Lake of Fire. At the end of the
thousand years there will be a revolt and all who have “play acted” with obedience to God, but not accepted regeneration
will join Satan and rebel against the rule of Christ. Those who do not want God as ruler of their life have their opportunity
to reject Him and embrace the satanic lie. All who do so, express their preference and pay the eternal price.
Satan is able to be totally controlled by God at any time. He is the Prince of this World, but as believers we are in union
with Christ, and so are even now superior to him. God is sovereign, all other powers that oppose God are actually weak
and they are deceived as to their eternal destiny by the arch deceiver. Isaiah sees Satan’s fall into hell and his reason
for being there in Isaiah 14. He sees the fall into hell of the murderous Assyrian king, and records this in Isaiah 14:6-11,
noting the abusive “welcome” into hell by all those he murdered.
He then sees that this king is actually just a pale imitation of his master Satan himself, and that Satan’s sins are the
same as the Assyrian king’s sins. Isaiah 14:12-15. He sees all their destinies together in the Lake of Fire, and the
reason that this is eternal. Isaiah 14:16-27. The Lake of Fire exists into the eternal state, for its presence is the reminder
of the eternal righteousness of God towards those who were given life and insulted the giver by their evil and sin.
Revelation 21:8, 27.
THE FIRST RESURRECTION AND THE SECOND DEATH. VERSES. 4-6
The rest of the chapter deals with the resurrections to commendation and to condemnation, with a statement regarding
the first resurrection to commendation in verse 4 followed by a similar statement in verse five regarding the second
resurrection. In verses 5b and 6 the first resurrection is amplified, while the second resurrection is expanded upon in
verses 11 to 15. A similar feature is given in the first two chapters of Genesis in the so called two creation accounts.
The book of Proverbs also deals with topics in this manner.
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20:4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of
them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the
beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived
and reigned with Christ a thousand years.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Those sitting on the thrones are believers who are already in a resurrection body. Earlier in this book the church age
believer is promised authority over the nations, Revelation. 2:26-27, and are placed on Christ's throne. Revelation 3:21.
Since the judgment of the Gentile nations Christ spoke of in Matthew 25:31-46 occurs before the Millennium, this must
be the "judgment given to them."
We also have the resurrection of Tribulation saints. I Corinthians 15:23-24 clearly teaches that the "first resurrection", the
resurrection of the saints, occurs in at least three different "orders" (Greek word “taxis”, which really means “battalions”).
[a] Christ is the first fruits from the dead, then
[b] Church Age believers at the Rapture, followed by
[c] Tribulational saints at the Second Advent
[d] Millennial saints at the end of the Millennium
Since the Tribulation is actually the conclusion of the age of Israel, I include here the resurrection of the Old Testament
saints. Daniel 12:1-3. The saints of the Old Testament period may then enjoy the Millennial reign of Jesus as their
Messiah-King, as was promised to David.
Notice again the basis of victory for these Tribulation martyrs. Revelation 7:14-17 cf 12:11.
These people were
beheaded because of witnessing, and the Word of God, and had not joined the world system of the Beast.
These saints will also exercise rule over the Millennial earth. David will rule in Jerusalem Hosea 3:5, Jeremiah 30:9.
HUMAN SOUL
HUMAN SPIRIT
APPLICATION
We are immensely rich in Christ. We share his destiny if we are believers, as we are in union with him.
The unbeliever has relationship with other human beings through the soul, but cannot have relationship with God the
Father unless he is born again, at which time the Holy Spirit regenerates him and restores the relationship broken from
birth by inheritance of the Old Sin Nature. The unbeliever is called the soulish man or natural man in 1 Corinthians 2:14,
where it states that the natural man cannot understand the things of God for they are spiritually discerned.
20:5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first
resurrection.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The "rest of the dead" refer to the unbelievers of all human history from Cain, who will all be raised together for eternal
judgment after the Millennium. Revelation 20:12.
The phrase, “This is the first resurrection”, should be in verse 6 rather than at the end of verse 5. It is an example where
the verse breaks are shown not to be inspired. Remember chapter and verse divisions only enter the Bible as part of the
printing process in the Renaissance period.
MILLENNIAL KINGDOM
RESURRECTIONS
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APPLICATION
At the point of death the soul and spirit of the believer go to heaven, absent from the body, and then face to face with the
Lord.
The first resurrection is in four sections and is to commendation. There is a difference between resurrection and
resuscitation. Lazarus was resuscitated by the Lord and eventually died whilst Jesus was resurrected and lives for ever
more. At the moment there are billions of unified souls and spirits in the presence of the Lord, and when the Rapture
occurs they will come back with the Lord, and will receive a resurrection body at the place where their body was buried,
or where their body was destroyed. We who are still alive, will be changed into an immortal resurrection body at that
same time frame. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
20:6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but
they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Therefore, the "first resurrection" is the "resurrection of the just" mentioned in Daniel 12:2; John. 5:29 and Acts 24:15.
Those included are "blessed," that is, joyous and happy, and "holy", or sanctified by faith in Christ. They have overcome
the second death. 1 John. 5:4-5.
Thus the Millennial earth will begin with believers in physical bodies under the rule and priesthood of glorified saints of
past ages. There is an open question, to be answered at the time only, as to whether Church Age saints are with the
Lord in the heavens, or are also upon the earth with the Old Testament saints as rulers, or go between the heavenly
“party” that is the marriage supper of the lamb, and the service of the Lord upon the earth assisting in the Millennium.
The same “open” question exists in the eternal state, as to which saints inhabit the Eternal Jerusalem and which live
eternally upon the new earth. At the time we will see where the mansions (plural) are; we may have multiple homes.
This is the fifth blessing in the book of the Revelation. “Holy” represents ultimate sanctification. To be “holy” means to be
set aside for godly and priestly service.
DESTINY OF BELIEVERS
RESURRECTION
RESURRECTION OF OLD TESTAMENT SAINTS
Sanctification
APPLICATION
The blessings of the book of the Revelation show that it does not matter how rough things get here, there is always
blessing for the believer eternally. No matter how bad things get upon the earth, there will be people that survive, and will
have inner happiness even through the tribulation, and eternal blessedness forever afterwards.
Irrespective of where you are, or your circumstances, it is possible for the believer to have inner happiness and
confidence if they focus upwards, and forwards. The Lord is victorious forever.
SATAN'S FINAL REBELLION. VERSES. 7-10
20:7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
At the end of the thousand years, Satan will be released from his prison and will lead his final revolt against God.
Revelation 20:3 told us "he must be released." This necessity is the result of divine justice as the foundation of God's
plan.
The inhabitants of the Millennial earth will live under the visible rule of Jesus Christ with the glorified saints as witness to
the results of God's grace. They have had perfect environment and openly obeyed and served the Lord, but they have
faced no strong test or temptation to rebel against the Lord through this entire period. That final test of their free will is
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given by the final satanic deception. They have had 1000 years to grow in spiritual power to resist by hearing and
following the living and written Word of God.
“Expired” is in the aorist tense, passive voice, subjunctive mood. The aorist tense is the point of time that the Millennium
is terminated, the passive voice, it receives termination, and the subjunctive mood shows potentially different outcomes
for the people involved, depending on their free will.
This means perfect environment is changed for the unbeliever after their rebellion, and the subsequent Great White
Throne judgment of all who have rejected the rulership of the Lord over their lives, but the perfect environment continues
for the believer in a new form in a new Heavens and a new earth.
“Loosed” is a future passive indicative, which is in contrast as far as the tense and mood with the word “expired”. Satan
will receive his liberty, and the indicative mood is the reality of this occurring. He will be released, and he will be
recaptured and eternally punished the next time. He is simply being used to sift the free will of the living people at this
time.
APPLICATION
Even in the Millennium, people, in their physical human bodies, still have Old Sin Natures and must have their free will
exercised and tested. Many will outwardly profess faith even as they do today, but the inner reality will be different for
many. The release of Satan and their joining with him in open rebellion will prove that they are indeed unregenerate play
actors (hypocrites), and therefore remain in hostility toward God. They have been hypocrites and must confront the truth.
The astounding thing is that after so much visible evidence of the perfection of God's plan and power, that these who
rebel will number a multitude.
Satan is not loosed until the plan for the Millennium is completed as far as God is concerned. As soon as His plan for the
thousand years is over, Satan is released to lead the final rebellion against God, and flush out the unbelievers from the
midst of the Millennial Kingdom. This is the “second advent of Satan”; the first being the Garden of Eden. In both cases
he came into perfect environment and destroyed it. He promises a perfect system but he always destroys it.
The end of the history of this present space-time universes will be the same as in the beginning; where Satan is shown
not to be able to solve man’s problems and that the only solution to those problems is regeneration. There is no
collective solution to man’s problems, it is always a personal one, and it always involves salvation.
20:8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog, and Magog, to
gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Even under perfect environment the world is ruled by the Lord Jesus Christ in their nations. The Lord does not set up an
international system even in the Millennial Kingdom. Mankind works best in their national/social/racial groupings and
throughout the millennial kingdom the people groups have celebrated their unity in diversity.
“Deceive” is the aorist active infinitive showing that after a thousand years Satan returns again to his old habits with the
infinitive showing that this is his policy. Satan here is able to deceive many within all the nations after one thousand years
of perfect environment, but especially within two people groups. Here we have the nations Gog and Magog again, in
contrast to Gog of Magog in Ezekiel 38. The number of people involved is innumerable.
REVELATION
Gog and Magog
This has a personnel connotation
Gog and Magog is a group of people in revolt.
This is post Millennial
Gog and Magog are killed by fire.
EZEKIEL
Gog of Magog
This has a geographical connotation
The King of the North is Gog of Magog
This is pre Millennial.
Gog of Magog killed by the sword.
Battle represents weapons which is amazing since there have been no weapons for a thousand years as in the
Millennium man shall learn war no more. Swords will be made into plough shares and spears into pruning hooks only in
the Millennial Kingdom. The United Nations can forget their misuse of this verse – they cannot bring peace!
APPLICATION
The unbeliever cannot enjoy perfect environment. We see this even today with people who have good marriages and
good lives and destroy them by sexual immorality, fraud, theft or violence. The answer to the happiness of your life does
not rely on your environment it relies on your relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Only if the soul is content does the
individual relax and enjoy what God gives them. Many people are unable to enjoy their lovely homes and destroy
everything in their marriages and families because they have no inner spiritual capacity to enjoy.
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If Satan can get people to follow him after a thousand years of perfect environment, what can he do nowadays? We need
to be aware of the strategies of Satan and be alert to his deceptive powers of persuasion. James 4:7-8, 1 Peter 5:8-9.
Remember Satan is under the ultimate control of God, so that he cannot escape for a thousand years, but on release he
appears to act as if God has no power. Satan deceives the world without reality of relationship with God, but the first one
deceived is Satan himself. He is not the creator; he is not even close in power to the creator.
If Satan can eliminate the Jews, he will eliminate God, as God will not be able to fulfil his covenants with them. This is
why his malice is has been focused upon that, and all his servants are identified by their Anti-Semitism.
20:9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the
beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Somehow, in a world where swords have been beaten into ploughshares, Isaiah 2:4; Micah 4:3, this rebellious company
will fashion weapons and mobilise an assault upon Jerusalem. This will take many months, during which time all the
people of the earth will be forced to decide who they stand with; God or Satan. The battle will build for months, but will be
over in a flash of fire from heaven in a millisecond. Mankind will have time to debate options and make their choices; they
will have eternity to regret them if they follow Satan.
There is no longer a need for God to permit the conflict to continue beyond a certain point; that point is when all of
mankind have taken their side of preference. The evidence of the hostility of unregenerate men and Satan is completed
when all people upon the earth have made their decision.
“To compass” is to encircle. Millions of people come to Jerusalem and encircle the city in an attempt to conquer it.
However fire comes down from heaven and consumes them. The regenerate people of all the nations stay in their
assigned national places on the earth and continue to serve the Lord through this time awaiting what they know will be
his final judgment upon their relatives and neighbours who have followed after evil.
PALESTINE
UNFULFILLED PROPHECY IN ISAIAH
APPLICATION
God is in control and will not only eliminate the opposition, in this case by fire, but also removes Satan for the last time
from the earth. Here violence is met by violence, and it is a replay of what occurred a thousand years previously.
God keeps his word to the Jews and keeps his word to us as well. God can be trusted and he has the power to achieve
all he promises to do. The timing of his actions to deliver are always in his hands.
20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the
false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Satan is immediately cast into the Lake of Fire to join his fellow conspirators, the beast (Antichrist), and false prophet,
forever. Surely they will pay the penalty of which Jesus spoke. But they will very quickly be joined by others. All who are
determined that they do not want God to rule over them are here and are here forever. Once life has been given by God
it is never to be extinguished; it is only how it will be lived that is to be decided.
Brimstone indicates that chemical activity occurs to perpetuate the lake of fire. This is a literal fire of some sort where the
beast and the false prophet are at this point. John uses language at his disposal to explain what he sees. This is an
eternal fire and so is quite different from present day fire that burns up flesh. Revelation 21:8, 27. They shall be
tormented for ever without rest, and without death and extinction.
The Lake of Fire is the only part of the present creation that enters into the eternal state, so it has a greater significance
than we can grasp at this point. It sums up the perfect righteousness and justice of God in a powerful eternal testimony
to the Plan of God.
SATANIC ATTACK ON BELIEVERS
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APPLICATION
There is no cessation of the lake of fire. The unbelievers are in everlasting torment for all eternity, but it is the torment
they have chosen. The lake of fire was formed for Satan and his angels. Matthew 25:41. The unbeliever shares the lake
of fire with them because he did not believe the Lord, and thus continued to be a subject of the prince of this world, and
rebel against God’s Plan. The unbeliever has selected their eternal destiny by their hatred of God and rejection of his
plan for their life. Revelation 21:8, 27. God gave life and the gift is eternal; the only question for man is the company they
want to keep, but having made their choice it is eternal!
Many of these people are very self righteous and religious, such as the Pharisees, a group of whom the Lord called
children of the Devil. John 8:30-58. The inhabitants of this place hate each other just as much as they hated God before.
Isaiah 14:6-27. They are locked into their choice forever, and yet their existence in eternity in the Lake of Fire causes no
distress to the believers.
THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT. VERSES. 11-15
Human history now reaches its conclusion so far as man's eternal destiny is concerned. The consequence of death is
judgment, Romans 5:12, Hebrews 9:27, and for this reason eternal judgment is called "the second death." It is from this
that we are delivered by the second birth by regeneration in Christ. If you are born twice you die once but if you are born
only once you die twice, physically and then at the second death.
20:11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled
away; and there was found no place for them.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
White is the colour of perfect righteousness. He who sits on it is the Lord Jesus Christ to whom all judgment is given.
John 5:22-27.
“Earth and heaven fled away” is the destruction of the present universe at the end of history. 2 Peter 3:7,10-13.
This old universe makes way for a new one which is created for eternity.
Now the "small and the great" stand before an impartial holy God to receive perfect righteousness - Romans 2:11.
THE LAST JUDGMENT
APPLICATION
God is everywhere. There is no place that you can escape the omnipresent God. This can be of great comfort to the
believer but is a sense of frustration and terror to the unbeliever. Hebrews 12:25-27
20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book
was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the
books, according to their works.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This is the resurrection of damnation. Those who rejected and hated God stand in the presence of God.
They will be given absolute justice based on the record of the books of the heavenly court. On the one hand we have the
Book of Life containing the names of all who died believing in Jesus Christ.
Obviously they are not found recorded there, the reason being their own refusal to trust in Christ as their Saviour.
Therefore, having rejected the righteousness of God offered in Jesus Christ, they must stand on their own righteousness.
Their sins are not mentioned, for all their sins were paid for by Christ on the Cross.
5:21, 2 Peter 2:1, 1 John. 2:2 .
Romans 5:16-18, 2 Corinthians
Because of this sacrifice God has never imputed to them their own sins. 2 Corinthians 5:19.
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Another book is a book of the same kind “allos”. It is a book that is also a book of grace, but these people have not
accepted God’s grace, but the standard of judgment is the same – it is God’s standard, not man’s.
“According to” is the preposition “kata” which means according to a standard, and that standard is the absolute standard
of God.
BOOKS
SIN
DIVINE GOOD - HUMAN GOOD
APPLICATION
The only issue for man’s eternal destiny is this; are you, in your own righteousness and merits, worthy of heaven?
The answer as anticipated by Isaiah 64:6, and it is negative.
The two most striking things in this passage are that men are judged on their good works without reference to their sins,
and that the ultimate issue is not sin, it is their rejection of Christ, resulting in self-exclusion from the Book of Life.
By the time you get to this point at the end of time and the start of eternity, the Book of Life will contain only the names of
every person who has died having accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as Saviour.
All human sin was judged at the cross, with the exception of unbelief. We are reminded that salvation is “not by works of
righteousness that we have done but according to his mercy he saved us”. Titus 3:5
20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in
them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The concept of the sea may well relate to the fact that in the ancient world the abode of fallen spirits was protected by
sea gates. Job 38:8. It also clearly makes the point that scattering ashes at sea, or burying in the sea will not stop the
Lord resurrecting the lost for this last judgment. Cremation and scattering of ashes may eliminate a grave for vengeful
men to defile, but it will not stop God raising the evil dead to face their final judgment.
The only work that is satisfactory to God is the perfect work of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross. All who have rejected
God’s perfection will have God’s judgment upon them forever. God gave life and it is an eternal gift – man has not got
the option of extinction and escape from judgment. Isaiah 14:6-12.
“Judged” is in the aorist passive indicative; the aorist tense indicates a point of time, the passive voice they receive
judgment, and the indicative mood is the reality of it.
HELL AND HADES
FOOTSTOOL
APPLICATION
With the reference to the sea it indicates that at, or by this point of time, the fallen angels from Tartarus are also thrown
into the Lake of Fire. Matthew 25:41. Tartarus is clearly the “holding pen” for the demons after their arrest at the Second
Advent; they wait there with Satan until all are finally condemned to the Lake of Fire.
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20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 20:15 And whosoever was not
found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Death itself and Hades (hell with men and Tartarus with demons) were cast into the lake of fire.
“Cast” is in the aorist tense which means that at a point of time it is divorced from time and perpetuated forever. It would
appear that the Lake of Fire is included in some way in the eternal state, or exists in some way in the, by then folded up
space-time universe, that is replaced by the eternal state. As presently creatures of space and time, all this is beyond our
comprehension now, and will only become clear when we enter eternity ourselves, and have the resurrection body to
fully comprehend all this.
The word “is” does not occur in the original. Literally it says “this, the second death”, which gives great emphasis to this
sentence in the Greek. This indicates that there is a genuine existence for unbelievers after physical death and that it is
also eternal in some way within the Lake of Fire. This concept is more understandable in 2014 than before, with “dark
matter”, “Black holes”, and other discoveries that remind us of the physics reality, that the entire mass of the universe
could be compressed into a meter cube of infinite weight. In some way the “lake of fire” goes on forever in an eternally
compressed, contained, and non-disturbing reminder of rebellion against the creator and saviour.
APPLICATION
Only unbelievers are in hades at this time with the transfer of the believers to heaven after the victory of the cross.
At this point we are told that each and every one of the unbelievers will acknowledge the justice of their own sentence to
eternal fire, as well as bow humbly and confess the glory and lordship of Jesus Christ. They will acknowledge that they
are rightly judged. Romans. 14:11; Philippians 2:10-11.
Therefore it is true that God does not condemn men to hell; they condemn themselves. In every one of them will be the
knowledge of God's fairness, and of the freedom of the gift of eternal life in Christ that they rejected. In this sense
everyone in hell will be a believer in the truth; they just believed the truth too late. That being said, they do not want to be
with God, for they have hated the truth, and by that they have chosen to spend eternity with Satan!
An understanding of the lake of fire is essential to understanding judgment and salvation.
THE UNBELIEVER'S ETERNAL STATE
CONCLUSION
Eternal Life exists only in Christ. To have life you must receive the one who is Life Himself. (John. 1:4, 14:6; 1 John.
5:11-12). If you reject Him, you actually condemn yourself to eternity in the Lake of Fire. The decision is your own; what
will you do with Jesus Christ?
NOTES
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CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
INTRODUCTION
In these final two chapters we have the conclusion of the book, with the anticipation of eternal conditions. The full infinite
joys and blessings of heaven are beyond the grasp of our present finite minds, but here we get a glimpse of the
blessings to come in images that John saw. Future anticipation, like prophecy, always involves unknown factors, for the
simple reason that we have no means for fully understanding these things.
Eternity is impossible to understand and explain in human language. It is described in terms of precious gems which has
great beauty. Remember, we are presently creatures of space and time, and have no capacity to understand things that
are well beyond space and time. John does his best to describe the vision he sees in poetic terms, and by use of
symbols, but human languages and our human mind now is unable to grasp these things fully this side of eternity.
THREE NEW THINGS IN HEAVEN. 21:1-2
We should first recognise that in the original Greek language of Revelation two words are translated "new." First we have
“neos”, which means new in time, recently made. This is not used here because John is seeing things that are beyond
the present space-time universe. Instead we have the word “kainos”, meaning renewed or renovated. The suggestion to
us is that while the present creation is cleansed by fire at the Second Advent, 2 Peter 3:7-13.
God brings out of it new conditions, but first it is wrapped up like a worn out and tired old soldier’s blanket. It is
thoroughly renovated for the Millennial Kingdom, and it will need to be after Anti-Christ’s assaults upon nature and the
tectonic activity, but the eternal state is totally “new” – for it is eternal – beyond the present limits of space and time. This
is in fact Paul's teaching in Romans 8:18-28.
With John we now move beyond the space-time limits of this present universe, into a new one, a totally new creation
beyond all present limits, which is why we need a resurrection body to enter it. The love and mercy and grace of God
meets us here in this new place also as we face things well beyond our present mind’s ability to comprehend. Romans
8:35-39. Don't “twist” these next two chapters to suit any space-time concepts you have, for John sees things well
beyond his frame of reference, and even our own, when we face space stations being described. 2 Peter 3:14-18.
21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and
there was no more sea. 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of
heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
New Heaven - This gives us some conception of the drastic effects of the rebellion of Satan and the fall of man. Our
sins have indeed reached as high as the heavens. This does not, however, refer to the third heaven, the abode of God.
This is rather the atmosphere and universe of creation. 200 million light years of space is imploded in a second and
transformed and changed into something else, that is even more wonderful, and is this time eternal rather than temporal.
The space-time universe is over, and replaced by an altogether new creation. John’s language will grapple with
describing this vision.
New Earth. - Peter tells us "the earth and its works will be folded/burned up", 2 Peter 3:10. The word he uses is “luo”,
which literally means "released, set free". So the world is renovated and set free of the works and ravages of evil. There
was no more sea to be seen on the new earth. The sea, now essential to animal and vegetable life on earth, is not
needed in God's eternal creation. He is not only the source of life as He ever was and is, but is then the direct sustainer
of it.
There is a New and Eternal Jerusalem. The heavenly Jerusalem is the eternal home of the saints that Jesus said He
would prepare in John. 14:1-3. Here the new city is compared to a bride and is actually called "The bride, the wife of the
Lamb" in verse 9. His description of it, below, is amazing to read. John sees something that is beyond all his human
experiences in his own day, for he sees and tries to describe what we would say today is a space station. This is truly a
vision of heaven and beyond the words he uses. It is interesting that in John’s day contemporary coins called Jerusalem
the “holy city”, and this is truly the “holy eternal city”.
The preposition “apo” - shows that the new Jerusalem comes from the ultimate source of God. As we will see it
resembles more a space station than any city we would know today. The verb “hetiomazo” is in the perfect tense which
means that it was prepared in the past with a result that it continues for ever.
“For her husband” is a dative of personal interest. This is God’s eternal preparation for his people forever.
APPLICATION
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The present space-time universe in which we now live is going to be completely destroyed/imploded. “Kainos” means
new in quality, or new in character rather than in substance. The very same term is used of the unregenerated believer
becomes a "new creation" (I Corinthians, 5:11); in a term which does not lose the personal identity but transforms it. So
in the final change of the physical universe it does not lose its identity but will pass away as to its outward and
recognisable form and be renewed in a fresh and more glorious one". (cf. Revelation 20:11).
There are three heavens and three earths in the Bible, the created heavens and earth, Genesis 1:1, 2 Peter 3:5, the
restored earth, Genesis 1:3, 2 Peter 3:7, and the new earth, Revelation 21:1 and 2 Peter 3:13. The inhabitants of the
new earth will be the Old Testament saints and the regenerate of Israel.
What God can do with our present universe, in preparation for His eternal Kingdom, can only be guessed at. Yet perhaps
we have a suggestion in the nature of the resurrection body of the saved where corruptible matter, by the energising
power of the Holy Spirit, takes on a wondrous character, being made glorious, powerful and imperishable (I Corinthians.
15:42-44). Peter’s words in 2 Peter 3:10ff indicate it is “folded up” like a used table napkin and put away or remade. He
pictures in simple words nuclear implosion; a staggering thing considering his perspective as a fisherman in 64 AD.
Whatever else this phrase "and there was no more sea" may mean, it seems to indicate the end of the old order and the
very structures for life in the new universe(Exodus 20:11; Ezekiel 48:28). The new heavens and earth are totally different
to the old creation in form and content. As understood literally it also indicates a complete change in climatic conditions,
as we would expect in a universe that doesn't need what we presently need. Don’t speculate about these things, for you
are doing so with your presently space-time limited mind – and give thanks for John who faithfully wrote these things
without trying to understand them. Be like him. Jude 1-3.
The holy city has three functions:
[a]
It will be the personal residence of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is of interest that on the basis of land formations
Jerusalem is the most efficient city on earth as far as a cumulative minimum distance to the rest of the earth is
concerned.
[b]
It fulfils the promise to Abraham as it is an eternal city that is provided in grace.
[c]
This is the headquarters of the new universe for eternity. Hebrews 11:9-10.
The city is so beautiful that it is said to be adorned like a bride.
ETERNITY FUTURE
BRIDE
THREE PERFECT THINGS IN HEAVEN. 21:3-5
Perfect fellowship - verse 3, Perfect happiness - verse 4, and Perpetual perfect newness - verse 5.
21:3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will
dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Perfect Fellowship - Jesus came to bring us into restored fellowship with God. John writes so that we might have this
fellowship and its accompanying joy, 1 John. 1:1-4. Yet in this world our fellowship is of a spiritual, inner, invisible nature.
In Heaven God will dwell in our midst. The word "dwell" is “Skenoo”, which means literally "to tabernacle." The word
''dwell" is used of Jesus in John. 1:14. He "tabernacled among us." In Him was the Shekinah glory of God in our midst.
Therefore his name "Immanuel", Isaiah. 7:14; Matthew. 1:23, will be a final and eternal reality, for "God with us."
The word “he” indicates that it is a person, the Lord Jesus Christ, and not it a literal Tabernacle. Eternity centres in Him.
ETERNAL SECURITY
APPLICATION
The Tabernacle of God is a complete Christology in the Old Testament. This building refers to Jesus Christ himself in
every aspect of its construction and use. Jesus Christ will be in His undiminished glory in eternity. Jesus Christ dwelt with
Israel in the form of the Shekinah glory, and all that pertained to his person and work was illustrated in some aspect of
the tabernacle’s function. He is seen truly as he is, and we are transformed also eternally, and are able to fellowship
with our creator and saviour, for we have resurrection bodies like his own and are capable of total fellowship without
needing any temple or mediation by ritual.
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The glory of man comes from the light being absorbed or reflected, but in the dark there is no glamour. If however you
have light within you, through the resurrection body, you will be perpetually glamorous and wonderful. John pictures a
place where the glory of God is seen in undiminished glory, and the reflected glory of God is seen in all creatures there.
We reflect Jesus truly and completely then; we are as God created man to be in this heavenly/new earthly eternal state.
21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor
crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Analysis and Background
The word “dakru” meaning tear is in the singular, meaning that God will wipe away each and every tear. There is not the
slightest regret and sadness that the Lord our God does not wipe away individually and he heals all causes of tears
forever.
Perfect happiness - By cleansing things by fire, God will institute perfect and perpetual happiness that is unassailable by
evil or sin. Each of these relates to an area of present life where happiness is limited or destroyed by the presence of
sin, death, and the legacy of the Fall of man in the Garden. The very legacy of the Fall is gone forever.
Tears speak of pain in the power of an emotion, of sorrow, and unhappiness. The legacy of the Fall is the “Second Law
of Thermodynamics”; all things tend to decay. We feel this law operating in our bodies and minds as we age. We groan
in these present bodies within our present universe, and as we get older we groan with the aches and pains of age more
and more. 2 Corinthians 5:1-5. There is a sadness as we age, as we appreciate just what it was that Adam truly lost, but
all is made as it was meant to be in the new heavens and earth.
Death removes loved ones and often brings fear and deepest regret/sadness to those who remain. It always brings tears
of sadness. Even when we know we will meet again, there are tears, as we are sorry for ourselves; we are sorry that we
will be some time before we can fellowship again with that person. Mourning speaks of the inner agony of which crying is
the external expression. Mourning is our reminder of the limits of this present space-time universe and our deep desire
for the new creation that the Lord promises and portrays to John here. Of course pain can be physical, mental, or
emotional. These are the things which limit happiness in time, and John sees that they are all gone in the new creation.
“Passed away” is in the aorist tense which means that they are removed forever at a point in time.
DESTINY OF BELIEVERS
APPLICATION
There are four things that will be removed at that glorious time; no more death, no more sorrow or mental agony, no
more pain or physical pain, no more crying or association with pain.
It is only in the eternal state that the effects of sin, physical, mental, social, and moral, are completely removed.
21:5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these
words are true and faithful.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Perpetual Newness - "I am making all things new" is in the present tense, speaking of an ongoing process. How often the
joy of some possession is dampened when the shine wears off it, after the newness is gone. This will never happen in
the eternal state. As Paul says: "In the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness
toward us in Christ". Ephesians. 2:7.
Or as David says, Psalm 16:11: "In Thy presence is fullness of joy; In Thy right hand there are pleasures forever." The
Greek for “making new” shows that it is permanently new. Notice that John is told to “write”, and we can see here and
later why he has to be told to record certain things, because the poor man is seeing things that will make his jaw drop,
and he cannot find the words, but he can record these bold and startling statements of God – and we can cling to them.
APPLICATION
God, on the throne of omnipotence, declares His will - all things are to be new. The old order of things is not improved,
nor in any sense imported into the eternal state, for such a condition demands a state of things in conformity with it. The
word for "new" kainos means the same as it did in verse 1; that is, totally new in character.
In the eternal state nothing will get old. Space and time, with aging and all associated things that are tied to this present
universe are gone as categories of existence! “True and faithful” shows that God is guaranteeing the situation here.
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THE INHERITANCE OF ETERNITY. (VERSES. 6-8)
Three things are restored here. The first two verse 6-7 are given to believers; the last in verse 8 is the inheritance of the
unsaved.
21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that
is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be
his God, and he shall be my son.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“It is done” means that it has come to pass. This is in the perfect tense showing that it will always exist. This is an echo
of Genesis Chapter 1.
Christ is the "Alpha and Omega". Revelation 1:8. His promise to those who overcome, 1 John 5:4-5, is the water of life,
as seen in Revelation. 7:17. Give unto him that is athirst, is in the present active participle. This is an offer linking man in
time with eternity. The inheritance of the saints is mentioned by Peter in 1 Peter. 1:3-5. This inheritance is amplified as
we go on.
This verse speaks of eternal relationships in this realm. Some have speculated that they will not know each other in
eternity, but that false viewpoint is corrected here and in 1 Corinthians 13:12.
The future middle indicative of eimi indicates by the middle voice that it is of benefit to man.
APPLICATION
Eternity Future is an expression of God’s character. God has prepared blessing for us in accordance with the abundance
of his Character and Plan; it is blessing forever.
The believer thirsts at the point he becomes aware of God, and also thirsts at the point of hearing the gospel. The water
of life is gospel hearing. People go into eternity through faith in Christ. Thus, the first promise is made of an abundance
of water to the one who is thirsty. It refers to the abundant character of eternal life and the blessings which flow from it.
The overcomer of 1 John 5:4-5, inherits all things. This is the person who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ. In the
previous verse we had the Gospel, here we have the acceptance of the Gospel. 1 Peter 1:4-5. The godly relationships
established in time will continue through to eternity. The promises to the overcomer in chapters two and three had
respect to special circumstances, and are in view of special rewards. But here the encouragement to persevere to the
end in the general battle of life is more ample; as the rewards are more full than those mentioned in the early portion.
Sonship, therefore, is an eternal relationship, as the overcomer has God, and God has the overcomer as a child.
FATHERHOOD OF GOD
21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers,
and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the
second death.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
However, to the unsaved "their part", or lot of inheritance, is the Lake of Fire, called the second or eternal death. Notice
that the characteristics of verse 8 are all qualified by the word "unbelieving". Eternal judgment is based on full and
complete, and sadly on-going rejection of Jesus Christ. John 3:16-19, 36. In some way the Lake of Fire is perpetuated
into eternity.
As it is a part of the present heaven-earth continuum we cannot speculate on how this will be, but this section of
Revelation makes it clear that it is eternal punishment that is received by those who turned from their creator and
practised evil as Satan did in rejecting their Lord and Creator; angelic and human all pay the price for this great evil.
Six categories of unbeliever are mentioned to remind us that these people have been persistent in life in their choices of
evil and so their eternal state is as persistent as their free will indicated they wished to be.
[a] The abominable or polluted - these are the people seen in Revelation 17 and 18.
[b] Murderers are violent and lawless.
[c] Whoremongers are pimps and the persistent sexual and religious fornicators of the Tribulation.
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[d] Sorcerers are people under the influence of drugs – who sought escapism rather than truth.
[e] Idolaters refers to the facade of religion and the embracing of the satanic alternative to truth.
[f] Liars are the deceitful unbelievers, the hypocrites of the false religious system, and the fraudsters of evil business.
If you get a series of associated things the first two items gives the title and the rest give amplification to that title. cf
Hebrews 6:3-6. “Part” means allotment, which means that each unbeliever will have a personal section of the lake of
fire. They have been individually provided for, just as they were for the salvation that they rejected!
Having rejected God’s provision of salvation for them they are forced to accept God’s personal provision for them of
judgment. There is no heaven with such people active within it, Revelation 21:27. They are there, but contained in a way
to magnify the perfection of the holy and just Character of God by their presence in the Lake of Fire, and they cause no
distress to those who enter the eternal state with Jesus.
We have been told that tears are wiped away, and for all of us there are friends and relatives in the Lake of Fire, and we
understand their choices and their fate then, and there are no regrets/sadness left on our part. There is only glory at the
perfection of the Plan of God.
NOT OF THIS WORLD
APPLICATION
Here the unbeliever is categorised as a coward. It should be translated, “but the coward, even the unbeliever”. The
unbeliever should have been a useful/productive coward when he thought of the lake of fire, but he was just a coward
and in time turned away from the hard road of truth and faith. This is how the believer sees the unbeliever in eternity and
it is why we are all able to let go of any regret, sadness, or depression when we face our past loved ones in the Lake of
Fire.
It was cowardly of them in time to shrink from the free offer of salvation and choose the applause of evil men rather than
be man or woman of truth enough to stand for Jesus. They have been cowards in life and after death they will be
cowards forever in the lake of fire! There is no fellowship in the Lake of Fire, only mutual insults. Isaiah 14:6-27. They
have what they choose, an they have it forever, and even if they were offered an alternative, they would reject it. They
want to be comfortable in hell rather than happy in heaven! Luke 16:19-31.
Particular notice should be taken of the text, in that it does not say that anyone who has ever committed any of these
sins will be excluded, but people whose lives are persistently characterised in these ways. It is people who persist in evil
that are eliminated from eternal reward, for the worst person may be saved, but only if they repent. Indeed we have
Paul’s testimony that he was the worst of sinners, and yet he was saved! 1 Timothy 1:15. We were saved by grace,
mercy, and love, and so could these people have been. Romans 5:9, 10:13, Ephesians 2:5-8, Titus 3:5.
It is only the persistence and determined evil of mankind that leads to their being with Satan forever. There is a
difference, for instance, in telling a lie and being a liar as a habit of one's life. No true believer could be categorised by
this list of sins as their daily chosen habit of life. To have a life that is characterized by arrogant, self-centred and
persistent sin is to have the fruit of Satan. Matthew 7:13ff. This is the mark of the evil one and indicates that the wicked
person is an unbeliever, no matter what their words say. Galatians 5:19-26, James 2:14-26.
THE NEW JERUSALEM AMPLIFIED - VERSES 9-27
Now the city is presented as "the bride, the Lamb's wife." We saw her previously in Revelation 19:7-9. This refers to the
Church in Space and Time – but may include all believers in the eternal state, for Israel was also referred to as the bride,
before her judgment for rejecting the Lord. Ephesians. 5:32, Isaiah 61-62, Jeremiah 16, 25. 31.
This is important because the figures used to illustrate the city are clearly to John speaking of the Church, but also may
be speaking of saved Israel and all who have come to faith in time, who are now united as the eternal bride of the Lord.
Remember that every Christian is called a "living stone" of God's building. 1 Peter. 2:5. So we must conclude that what
we see here is spiritual, not physical, in nature. One more thing: In 1 Corinthians 3:11-15, the building materials of
Divine Service are called "gold, silver, and precious stones". These are said to stand forever. In Revelation 19:7-8 the
adorning of the bride is called, "the righteous acts of the Saints". These things are the same, just the image used to
describe them differs.
Therefore the city is presented in terms of these things because this is the Church in her eternal rewards, but also all the
saved in their eternal rewards, untied in worship and fellowship with the Lord forever. Every stone or precious metal in
effect represents the Divine Service and eternal reward of an individual believer. They stand for beauty and eternity in
the best way human language can describe it.
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21:9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues,
and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. 21:10 And he carried me
away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending
out of heaven from God, 21:11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even
like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
John is now bidden by one of the angels who poured out the bowl judgments to view the eternal city in greater detail.
Her glory is the reflected glory of Christ, which we are told we will receive, in passages such as Romans 8:18, 2
Corinthians 3:18, 4:17-18. The crystal clear jasper speaks of the purity of our holiness in Christ. Even now we are the
"temple of God". 1 Corinthians. 3:16, 6:19. In the eternal state the Shekinah glory of God will be fully revealed in and
through us all.
Here we have the New Jerusalem described. Zechariah 2, and Ezekiel 42-48 describes the Millennial Jerusalem.
MILLENNIAL JERUSALEM
This city has natural light
This city has no walls - Zechariah 2:4-5
This city contains a Temple Ezekiel 40-48
Animal sacrifices will operate in this city Ezekiel 47:1 ff
Living water comes out of the Temple Ezekiel 47:1
There are unsaved people in this city Zechariah 12:6
There are trees for food Ezekiel 47:7-12
ETERNAL JERUSALEM
This city has supernatural light
This city has walls - Revelation 21:12
This city has no Temple- Revelation 21:22
There will be no animal sacrifices in this city
Water comes out of the Throne Revelation 22:1
Only saved people in the city Revelation 21:24
Here we only have the Tree of Life Revelation 22:2
The clause "having the glory of God" syntactically is related with verse 10. The participle "having" agreeing with the "city"
of God's complete character, that is, light as a valuable gem, clear as crystal reflecting the fullness of the facets of God's
person. The perfect jasper stone is probably a diamond. Remember that John sees things that are way beyond his
ability to describe with space-time words, so he uses concepts that portray the brilliance and beauty of this vision.
The emphasis on the images of wealth of the New Jerusalem would remind the older Jewish readers of the glory of the
Temple whose gates had been adorned with gold and silver. Isaiah 60:1-3. It is a reminder that this space station is here
for all the believers of time as the place of fellowship and worship – with the entire new universe to be explored and
enjoyed forever.
APPLICATION
Having seen the New Jerusalem he now seeks an amplified and detailed view of the city which he realises is suspended
over the earth. The city arrives as a completed package. When something comes from God it comes completed.
Adam and Eve had perfect environment, Satan was originally perfect. This great “space station” is absolutely perfect.
These hard and indestructible gems are fit emblems of permanence in the glorified state (I Corinthians. 15:50). Also, both
stones are employed to set forth the glory and majesty of God on His throne. Revelation 4:3. Having the glory of God is
therefore reflecting the glory of God. The impression left with John is that of glory and permanence.
21:12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written
thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: 21:13 On the east three gates; on the
north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. 21:14 And the wall of the city had
twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The images John sees are indicative of the heavenly realities that are beyond his space-time limited words. The Wall obviously no wall is needed for protection in heaven, and how can you have a wall around a space station? This
wall/force field/band of power like Saturn’s rings….. We cannot now know, any more than John was able to understand
then, represents two eternal realities: separation and security. These both come to us by faith. The wall of faith sets us
apart from the rest of mankind where we are secure in God's grace. In this wall are gates/ports of entry. These bear the
names of the twelve tribes of Israel.
This is a memorial to Israel as the Covenant-people by whom Christ came at his First Advent, and for whom he returns at
the Second Advent. Romans 9:1-5. To them was given the four unconditional covenants of the Old Testament; the
Abrahamic, Palestinian, Davidic, and New Covenant. These covenants all depend upon the Seed of Abraham in whom,
"all families of the earth shall be blessed". Genesis 12:3, Galatians 3:16.
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These covenants, and faith in the coming seed, once stood as a "wall of partition" between Jews and Gentiles.
Ephesians 2:11-22. At the juncture of that wall of Israel and the Church is the Cornerstone, Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 2:6-10.
It is a further indication that what John sees is the eternal unity of all who welcomed Jesus as their Messiah, Saviour and
Creator.
This vision is in contrast with the tabernacle where the entrance was in the east and those worshipping moved towards
the west. The wise men came from the east to the west. Adam and his family were sent out to the east of Eden and
came back to present their sacrifices by coming west. The elders of Israel were condemned by the Lord for worshipping
the rising sun with their backs to the Temple.
The Foundation - the wall, picturing faith, must have a “solid” foundation, but remember we are beyond space-time here
and so the “foundation” is not as we know it of rock, but of the work of twelve extra-ordinary Holy Spirit empowered men.
The foundation stones bear the names of the twelve Apostles of Christ.
This is the same truth taught in Ephesians 2:20 which says: "Having been built on the foundation of the Apostles and
Prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone". Jude 3.
The subject of that passage is the whole household of faith, made up of all who have believed in Jesus Christ, united
forever, but still in their separate identities; celebrating their differences and united in their love of the Lord and each
other.
APPLICATION
The New Jerusalem will have a great and high wall suggesting the security of the bride. In the wall are twelve gates/ports
with an angel at each one and the names of the twelve tribes of Israel inscribed on them.
John does not reveal the name of each gate in contrast to the millennial scene in which Ezekiel gives the names of tribes
of Israel as inscribed on the gates of the city at that time (cf. Ezekiel 48:31-35).
The fact that the New Jerusalem will have gates implies that its citizens will have freedom to go in and out; that
exploration of the new universe is an aspect of this new creation. There will be no boredom at all!
We must always worship the Creator and not the created things. Our church buildings should run from the east to the
west with the entrance at the east to reflect these things and be good teaching points for young believers.
The twelve apostles of the Lamb are the eleven plus possibly Paul. We have no certainty on this, as there are others
who would lay claim to this title, but the Lord gives the title alone. The fact that the names of the apostles are written on
the foundations recalls to mind the words of the apostle Paul as he wrote, "built upon the foundation of the apostles".
(Ephesians 2:12). Also Jude 1-3.
Even in eternity Israel and the church are distinguished though both are included in God's redeemed people, and they
celebrate the new creation together forever.
21:15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall
thereof. 21:16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city
with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. 21:17 And he
measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of
the angel.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The golden reed is a measuring instrument. The angel that talked with John now measures the dimensions of the city.
Using a golden reed (ten feet long) the angel finds that the city is square its length and breadth being equal, 12,000
furlongs (verse 16). A furlong is equal to 582 feet so the total distance would be equal to approximately 1,500 miles. As
this is a cube or foursquare shape the amount of space that will be occupied by the city is staggering. Having said this,
John is using present measurement to give a clue to immensity – we must wait and see, but be assured of the eternal
awesomeness of all this!
The City's Dimensions. - The heavenly Jerusalem is a perfect cube, which in present space-time measure is 1500 miles
long, wide, and high. This is a giant space station, but remember, in the new creation the old rules of matter do not apply,
so see the symbols John uses, for he sees things that make no sense to him as objects alone. In addition, 2 Chronicles
3:8 tells us the Holy of Holies in Solomon's Temple was a perfect cube, 20 cubits each way. As the Holy of Holies was a
perfect cube, the city is the centre of God's universe, and the eternal Temple which is indwelt by the saved of time, and
we are indwelt by God Himself.
Note the significance of the symbolism here, rather than trying to work out the physics of the shape, for our concepts of
space and time are over here. In the ancient world the cube was the symbol of perfection, and its form was also used for
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the Brazen Altar and the breastplate of the High Priest Both the altar of burnt offering and the altar of incense were of
this form and so was the High Priest’s breastplate cf. Exodus 27:1, 28:16, 30:2, 1 Kings. 6:20.
The feature also reappears in Ezekiel's new city and temple (Ezekiel 41:21; 43:16; 45:1; 48:20). In ancient cities the
foursquare form was not unusual. As is well known, the rectangular tetragon was to Greek thinkers a symbol of
perfection. The cubits used for the wall are 144,000 in number and I wonder if there may not be a link here to the
144,000 evangelists of Revelation 7.
Application
The measuring rod comes from the vision in Ezekiel 40:3 and Zechariah 2:1-2, the measurements of the city were to
produce awe of God’s great promises and thus repentance Ezekiel 40:4, 43:10-11.
The cube or city however, must be understood as a place where everyone will dwell throughout eternity, as all the saints
of time will have access to and from it.
The implications are however that there is an abundant amount of room for all, plus the new heavens and earth to
explore and worship within.
The cube or foursquare shape of the city reminds one of the fourfold dimensions given of the love of God (Ephesians.
3:18).
Twelve is perfect government and is the product of three, the divine number and four the earthly number.
TWELVE ANOINTED
21:18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. 21:19
And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first
foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; 21:20 The fifth,
sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a
chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The City's Construction - Here again we see materials used elsewhere in Scripture to picture spiritual attainment and
blessings. Remember, these are symbols and reflect John’s best language to describe the eternal glory he sees in
temporal language using symbols of eternal realities that are well beyond his words.
The jasper we saw in Verse. 11 is a picture of purity.
Pure gold throughout Scripture represents the Righteousness of God as in the articles of the Tabernacle. As gold like
clear glass, the indwelling glory would shine out giving the "lustrous brilliance" of Verse. 11.
The stones of verses 19-20 were used to make the breastplate of the High Priest. Each has its own beauty and glory as
does every believer in Jesus Christ. Every one reflects God's grace, glory, and righteousness in a different way. The
mines for chalcedony were found in Chalcedon near the Black Sea
The foundation was adorned. The word for this is “kosmeo”, a word from which we derive the English word "cosmetics"
with twelve precious stones. The sardius was found near Sardis in Lydia. Pliny the Elder identified the chrysoprasus as
a bright green jewel.
APPLICATION
Man in his finite scientific knowledge has only been able to purify gold to a degree of opaqueness.
But here, the infinite God of all science will present a city of transparent gold. This means a purity beyond our
imagination.
Thus, in the divine righteousness of God, the believer is assured of not only complete justification but also complete
glorification (cf. Romans 8:29-30).
This spectrum of beauty reflects the beauty and glory of God.
The first layer of jasper is generally considered to have included several kinds of delicate translucent colours, blue,
green, and rosy tints.
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The second, sapphire; blue in colour.
The third foundation of chalcedony; sky blue with stripes of other colours running through it.
The fourth, emerald; a bright green colour.
The fifth foundation the sardonyx has a red and white tone to it,
The sixth, a sardius stone is found in both red and honey colour (cf. Rev. 4~3).
The seventh, chrysolyte, a transparent golden colour.
The eighth foundation, beryl is sea-green as to colour.
The ninth topaz is a transparent stone of yellow-green colour.
The tenth chrysoprasus, is generally described as green.
The eleventh foundation, the jacinth is a violet colour.
The last stone, the amethyst is purple.
On top of this beautiful foundation stands the walls of jasper and the city of gold. The picture is overwhelming.
21:21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city
was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
“Plateia” a broad wide street is in contrast to “Rhune” which is a narrow street or alley. All is open and light filled.
The gates are transparent pearls.
The pearl was valued above all stones in the ancient world. Jesus spoke of the "pearl of great price" in Matthew. 13:46.
This represents the incomparable value of entering the Kingdom of God, so much so that a man would sell all he owns to
obtain it.
Thus the gates of "access" through the "wall" of faith fit the figure of a single pearl. Every entry and exit point speak of
the perfection and great value of the person and work of the Lord for us in time – and its eternal benefit to us.
The street which is in the singular, not "streets" was of pure transparent gold. If gold represents the righteousness of
God here, as in Psalm 19:10, and a street is the place of travel, then we have the image of the saints walking in the
perfect righteousness of God. John is using images that convey spiritual reality and actual truth; this is a real place, but
its glories are beyond human words, but glimpses of the reality are gained of it by humanly understood images.
To us this is much more Scriptural and spiritually appealing than literal gold streets, but let us be like John, and praise
God and worship his holiness, and wait to see what all this is. With John we glory in God’s Plan now and rest in his
provision for eternity – for it is wonderful beyond all words.
APPLICATION
Built in the walls are the twelve gates that John describes as each being made of one huge pearl.
When one reflects as to the creation of a pearl in the depths of the sea - the agitation of a single grain of sand, to perfect
the shape; lustre and size – It pales into insignificance when paralleled with the sufferings of our Lord to produce gates
such as these. These gates remind John of the perfect provision of the Lord of salvation for all mankind.
21:22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. 21:23 And the
city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb
is the light thereof.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Inside The City there is no need of a temple in the city. John would have looked for a temple, and he is surprised by this,
but then realises that this is what he should have expected – but never thought of before this.
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In reality the entire city is the Holy of Holies indwelt by God Himself, and all saved mankind are within it, not excluded
from it as men were in all temples.
There is no need of sun or moon in the city. The city is illumined by God's glory; the Lamb is the light John. 1:9. The new
universe has an entirely different energy source than the present one. rather than the thermo-nuclear energy of the suns
of our universe there is a direct source of energy from God holding all together and providing light to all areas – this is
well beyond our words today – and keep remembering our dear brother the Apostle John – he is seeing things that he
has no words for – and he is doing really well with the ones the Spirit gives him through the angels.
The fact that the nations walk by the light of God suggests a new reality to us for the way the universe works. Firstly, the
city apparently orbits the new earth acting as the eternal sun. Having said this, pause and reflect upon what we have
heard from John so far, and see that the truth is far bigger than this. Men jump to conclusions that they draw from their
own past and present, but what John is seeing is well beyond our concepts of orbiting planets and suns of the present
universe. God’s light fills the entire new creation – there is no darkness – for evil is gone – and whatever is firing up this
new universe it is different and way beyond our minds at this point.
APPLICATION
Here we see the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We as believers will dwell with God intimately forever.
That God Himself is the light of the city is in keeping with many passages of Scripture (cf, John 1:7-9; 3:19; 8:12; 12:35).
PROPHECY - PRESENTED WITH GIFTS
21:24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring
their glory and honour into it. 21:25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night
there. 21:26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. 21:27 And there shall in no wise
enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are
written in the Lamb's book of life.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here we have “phos” which is light in this verse compared with “luchnos” or lamp in verse 23 which is also translated
light.
Those of the nations reside, not in the city, but on the renovated earth. These nations will be headed by Israel under the
rule of King David, Christ's regent on the new earth.
The Greek interlinear renders this verse, “And shall walk about the nations through the light of it, and the kings of the
earth bring the glory of them into it.”
The gates will never shut and there will be perpetual day. Like the gates of ancient cities the Temple gates in Old
Jerusalem were closed at night.
The city itself shall be one great body of light and glory.
One could express it in this manner, "one perpetual high noon"; that is divest of any cloud or shadow.
Thus, there is no night with its darkness its fears, and its terrors. Pause and sit with this truth, for John realises that there
is no sun and moon any more, but the source of universal light is God directly shining into every area of the infinite new
creation.
The glory of the nations (mankind is still separated into nations) go up to the New Jerusalem for formal worship of some
sort at some time – if this is the right term then……
There is another clear declaration that this glory will not be enjoyed by any who have rejected the person and work of the
Lord Jesus Christ. cf. Revelation 13:8, 21:8
John closes the chapter with a solemn reminder that if they had not believed, they too would of been excluded from an
eternal life of purity and bliss.
APPLICATION
The city will be the place of worship to which the inhabitants of the eternal nations will bring their honour and glory.
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The believer now enters upon an eternal day which he will know no setting sun.
The statement, "its gates shall never be closed", indicates that there will be continuous eternal activity by the saints, as in
their glorified bodies they will require no rest,
These are the eternal joys of the saved.
“That which defiles” refers to the fallen angels or unbelievers, which is contrasted with the believer whose name is written
in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
RACE - NATIONS
NATIONS
CONCLUSION
Sin in every phase and vestige is completely excluded from this holy scene. (cf, Revelation. 20:7-10). All is new here
and all is wonderful beyond present words.
The least spot or taint of evil could not stand the glare of the divine glory of God and the Lamb.
Those who enter in are defined as the one's who are written in the Lamb's book of life.
NOTES
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CHAPTER TWENTY TWO
INTRODUCTION
FIVE ETERNAL JOYS. 22:1-5
In this section we see the effects of the fall of Adam reversed, and through Jesus Christ, the last Adam, (1 Corinthians
15:45-49), we have Paradise regained, but gained eternally.
It should be remembered in using these terms, however, that what we have in Christ is far superior to anything Adam
had in the garden.
22:1 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of
the Lamb. 22:2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which
bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of
the nations. 22:3 And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his
servants shall serve him: 22:4 And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. 22:5 And
there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them
light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Water of Life. The Garden of Eden was watered by a river. (Gen. 2:10-14). Here we find the true water of life.
The Tree of Life. The "street" here is singular as in 21:21. This street represents the "one way" into heaven which is
Christ. John 14:6. In the median of this avenue is the tree of life. even though Adam and Even lost access to it, nothing is
“lost” by God, and redeemed mankind has what our ancestors lost restored in full. A city of 1500km across must have
more that one street we would think, and this is a reminder that the language here is figurative, using images that John
could think of to express realities that were too great for his limited words. It is also a reminder that we “think” in temporal
terms now, and this is eternity, beyond space and time. John is using space and time words to describe what is beyond
both categories. If you find these chapters daunting, but also exciting, that is the reason!
This was all forfeited by Adam and Eve in their fall (Genesis 3:24). Here the tree is restored to the company of the saved.
The Curse of sin is permanently Removed. At the fall the human race came under the curse of sin and death. The
consequences of sin affect every phase and facet of life of earthly life now. (cf. Gen. 2:17, 3:14-19; Hebrews. 2:14-15).
The greatest part of this curse involved man's separation from his Creator. Here perfect fellowship is restored.
There is both Fellowship And Service. In this eternal state of restored fellowship the servants of God will serve Him.
The word “latreuo” used in verse 3 speaks of priestly service or worship.
“Horao” means to have a panoramic view. They shall fully see the Lord and will be seen as His possession.
The voice being a middle voice reinforces it will be to the believer’s benefit to see the Lord face to face.
Dominion is Regained by glorified mankind. Again, at the fall, Adam lost the dominion God had given him (Genesis.
1:26), and the sceptre of world rule was usurped by Satan. (2 Corinthians. 4:4). All is restored here.
APPLICATION
In John 7:37-39 Jesus speaks of "rivers of living water", which John tells us anticipates the life-giving and sustaining
ministry of the Holy Spirit.
This being the case, we see the full and unified working of the Trinity here, for the "living water" comes from the Throne
of God and of the Lamb.
The "healing of the nations" is an idea that comes from Ezekiel 47:12. The word "healing" is “therapeuo”, which can also
refer to a state of healthy existence.
God will perpetuate the Divine institution of nationalism forever as a memorial of Divine order and the diversity of His
created peoples. There is an eternal celebration of racial differences in heaven. The entire spectrum of saved mankind
is here all celebrating who they are in Christ Jesus.
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The service of this life will be amplified in eternity according to our faithfulness. The parable of the talents (Matthew.
25:14ff) suggests that our eternal service may even be of the same kind, i.e., continuation of spiritual gifts.
In this service we "shall see His face" (cf. Matthew. 5:8), and bear His name on our forehead. (cf. Revelation. 7:3, 9:4).
Under the illumination of God who is Light (1 John. 1:5), we "shall reign forever and ever." This fulfils the promise of Rev.
2:26-27, 3:21.
RIVERS OF LIVING WATER
BELIEVERS BLESSING
FOUR KEYS TO ETERNAL BLESSING. (VERSES. 6-14)
22:6 And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his
angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. 22:7 Behold, I come quickly: blessed is
he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Repeatedly in the Word of God, and especially in the Revelation, God gives the invitation to all to come to Christ and
receive the gift of righteousness and life leading to eternal blessing.
Here at the close of the book God repeats four aspects of the work of redeeming grace.
The Word of God. (Verses. 6-7) Again the veracity of God is affirmed. The certainty of these things rests on the "God
who cannot lie". (Hebrews. 6:18-20). Three times (Verses. 7, 12, 20) Jesus promises His return. Each time blessing is
in view, but there is also warning to those who remain in unbelief, but by the time the eternal has begun the reality of his
presence is seen by all.
APPLICATION
The book of Revelation is in fact a text book and guide for life. It gives future hope while laying out for us the trends of
evil developing in this age and how to overcome them. Every blessing in time and eternity comes first through a grasp of
the Word of God.
Here the sixth beatitude of the book promises eternal joy to those who heed the teachings of this book.
No other New Testament book promises so much blessing to those who carefully study and understand it.
This is a warning that the Second Advent is going to be on schedule and many unbelievers are going to be caught out by
the Baptism of Fire.
BLESSING
22:8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship
before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. 22:9 Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I
am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book:
worship God.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Worship of God. For the second time John is overwhelmed with all he has seen and heard and attempts to worship
the teaching angel. (cf. 19:10). Don’t be baffled at this, for he has seen things that are mind blowing!
Again the angel rebukes him and identifies himself as a fellow-servant of the prophets and believers.
The word for “Worship” is in the aorist, active, imperative. The imperative mood shows that John is commanded by the
angel to worship, and the active voice reminds us, John has to do it himself, and his focus is to be God, never any other
creature or thing.
This is again the teaching angel explaining things, to whom John is very grateful, and overwhelmed.
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APPLICATION
The command to worship God naturally follows the importance of the Word of God.
The Bible leads to true worship. True worship involves at least four ingredients:
[a]
Sacrifice (Genesis 22:5). In this passage the word "worship" first occurs in Scripture.
[b]
Separation (Psalm 29:2). Biblical separation is both negative (from sin) and positive (to God).
[c]
Divine provisions to make worship possible (John.4:24). True worship depends entirely on the provisions of
God's Grace. These are two-fold. First, the ministry of the Holy Spirit within; secondly, the ministry of the Word
of God without. Those who worship filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) in the study of truth, will be sought out
by God.
[d]
A way of life (Romans 12:1-2). Only when worship becomes a lifestyle do the blessing and benefits of worship
become a reality in life.
The interpreting angel is the same as a prophet. The prophets however are seen as human as they are called John’s
brothers.
22:10 And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. 22:11 He
that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him
be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The Work of Faith. In contrast to the book of Daniel (Dan. 8:26, 12:10), John is commanded not to seal the book. The
"time" of its fulfilment began in the days of the Apostle and will carry through the Great Tribulation period and into
Eternity.
This verse emphatically lays personal responsibility on each believer, reminding us that we need to read and meditate
upon this book, and we are held responsible by God for our response to this Revelation.
The present active participle of “adikeo” shows that the person who is unjust wants to be so because he has rejected
Christ. It is followed by the aorist active imperative, that is the reminder that holy action is required of God’s people.
Remember James words in James 2:19, and ensure that our faith is active in worship and service. The devils “tremble”
at these truths, and we must ensure our faith works out in life in more than just trembling.
He that is filthy is a noun, as is those of righteous and holy, and they are followed by the aorist passive imperatives. This
is the reminder of the importance of definite response to truth heard. The “filthy” unbeliever rejects the truth, hates the
truth, and then distracts himself from the truth, whereas the believer hears, obeys and follows the instructions of the truth.
We are called to be active in faith, not passive.
APPLICATION
The book of the Revelation is an open book that is meant to be understood by believers today, as far as human language
and space and time thinking permits. While there are things here we do not understand, due to our own present limits, it
is not “sealed” as some details of Daniel’s revelation was.
During history God has provided additional material in writing starting with Moses and the Pentateuch, the completion of
the Old Testament Canon and in John’s day the completion of the Bible with the Book of the Revelation. We have the
whole realm of the Scriptures. Revelation is the last book of 66 and if a believer knows the other 65 they will have the
information required to understand the 66th.
The time is at hand, means that the clock has started ticking at the time of writing. The count down has begun by the end
of the first century! All history went upwards towards the Cross, now it is heading downhill steadily towards the events
we have studied in this book – and every believer needs to know this book and be encouraged by it.
The time will come when Jesus will shut the door (Matthew. 25:10; Luke. 13:25). Every person will forever be a product
of their own settled decision regarding Christ. There is a day when work finishes and we are assessed eternally for what
has been done for the glory of the Lord.
Bible doctrine can persuade, but you cannot coerce people into the kingdom of God. If the gospel does not change them
they cannot be changed, for they have resisted the Holy Spirit and those that do that are determined to reject the Lord.
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He that is a believer in time retains that status of blessing in eternity. He that is an unbeliever retains the eternal
judgment of God.
22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
22:13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. 22:14 Blessed are they that do
his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The promise of reward for those who submit in faith is echoed throughout Scripture. These are given by the Chief
Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). Christ is eternal; he was before the beginning and will be there after the end of time. He is and
always will be God.
“The Washing of Regeneration”. The final beatitude of the book proclaims the happy state of those "washed" by faith.
This is the same washing of which Jesus spoke in John 13:10, 15:3, and Titus 3:5.
Earlier Revelation 7:14 tells of those who "have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." This
speaks of the cleansing of those who place their trust in the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ as their substitute on the
Cross.
APPLICATION
"What he has done" is literally, "as his work is." The work of God is to believe on Him whom He sent (John. 6:29).
This again looks at the Second Advent of Christ and the rewards that will be given at that stage.
As God is everlasting and we are in Christ, we have everlasting life.
The Lord Jesus Christ is the beginning and the end.
Because He was imputed with our sins, we can receive His righteousness as a gift (2 Corinthians. 5:21; Romans. 6:23).
Remember that the book began, "from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first born of the dead, and the ruler of the
kings of the earth. To Him who loved us, and released us from our sins by His blood”. (Revelation 1:5).
SHEPHERD
CHRIST'S DEITY AND US
GOD'S FINAL INVITATION. (VERSES. 15-21)
22:15 For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever
loveth and maketh a lie.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
This verse reminds us again of the eternal outcasts, those who have rejected deliverance from sin and evil through
Christ’s person and work. This is another reminder that in some way the Lake of Fire is securely placed in the eternal
state and remains secure for eternity as a reminder of the free will of mankind and the absolute righteousness and justice
of God.
Then based on this warning we have God's final invitation.
APPLICATION
Here we have the future of the unbeliever. Dogs represent unbelievers.
This passage makes it quite clear that everyone does not go to heaven, but all are in the eternal state – but the
unbeliever is “frozen in time” within the Lake of Fire.
Those who are not born again are condemned and will not enter into eternal bliss. The choices men and women make in
time are solidified in eternity. John 3:18-36.
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22:16 I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the
offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
Here in the infinitive mood of Martureo we have the purpose for which Jesus sent his angel emphasised; it was to bear
witness to the churches that people might be saved.
First Jesus Himself calls men to come to Him (cf. Matthew. 11:28-29). He is the "root", or origin, as well as the
"offspring" of David.
He is both David's Lord and David's Son which speaks of His deity and then His humanity. (Matthew. 22:43-45).
He is the "Morning Star" (Numbers. 24:17; Luke. 1:78; 2 Peter. 1:19). In the darkest time of human history, the Lord has
brought light into the darkness.
“Testify unto you” is dative of advantage.
The bright and morning star is a special light in the darkness.
MESSIANIC TYPES
APPLICATION
He will still shine as the promise of the Dawn of Eternity and the rising of the "Sun of Righteousness". (Malachi. 4:2)
It is to our advantage that the teaching angel taught John and us. Revelation is meant to be understood; it is only a
complete mystery to those who do not study scripture.
22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst
come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The invitation is picked up by the Holy Spirit and by he who comes through the Bride, the Church.
hears is to send the invitation along, and say loudly "Come!" Isaiah 3:11, Acts 4:12, 16:31.
Everyone who
“Come” is in the present middle imperative; present tense - as long as a person is alive, middle voice - the person is
benefited from coming, imperative mood – it is an order. There is only one path to the blessing God desires to give.
“Freely” is the adverb of grace, it is without cost. The greatness and value of the Gospel message is to be proclaimed
and all are to hear of the wonder of His Grace – the offer remains open until the unbeliever’s death.
EFFECTIVE CALLING
APPLICATION
This is the Holy Spirit saying “come”. No one can understand the gospel unless it is made clear in the soulish mind of the
unbeliever by the ministries of the Holy Spirit. God ensures all hear and understand.
The Church up until the point of the Rapture says “come”.
To the thirsty of soul, the call is "come". (cf. Isaiah. 51:1-5). The Water of Life, the gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit is
freely available to all who will trust Christ. (John. 7:37-39).
Those who have heard and those who have a thirst for spiritual things are to come.
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22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto
these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 22:19 And if any man shall take
away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of
the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
We then have John's warnings against any human tampering with the Revelation of God. Compare this with
Deuteronomy 4:2.
The word “aphaireo” means to remove or take away. God’s Word is to be heard, believed and applied, never ignored,
altered or distorted. 2 Peter 3:14-16.
APPLICATION
Interestingly, I understand the "Readers Digest Condensed Bible" left out verse 19!
The Word of God is perfect and anyone who tampers with it is judged in a most severe way.
Seeing the Lord Jesus Christ has been identified in verse 16 it is likely that these words recorded by John are from the
lips of the Lord Himself.
INSPIRATION
INERRANCY
CANONICITY
22:20 He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. 22:21
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
ANALYSIS AND BACKGROUND
The book concludes with the third promise of the soon-return of our Lord, and the response of John is, "Come, Lord
Jesus." John lived to see by these visions the Lord Jesus come and inherit his world in purity and righteousness. John
ached to see the created world be as it was made to be. Do we have this passion, or are we attached to the things of
this present world?
In the meantime, we are to live by means of God's Grace, focused upon Him not upon the temporal things of this earth.
Grace is God’s unmerited favour, and through faith we have it in abundance.
APPLICATION
Paul writes to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians. 1:9-10), that as they anticipate Christ's return they are to "serve and
wait."
The Bible always gives balance to life, by reminding us of eternity to balance the cares of time. Let us not be like Demas,
who forsook the apostolic ministry because he “loved this present world”/ the things of this life”. 2 Timothy 4:9
As believers the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ is always with us and the challenge we have daily is to walk in passionate
fellowship with the one who is coming again to inherit this world. As we lift our Communion Cups let us praise God and
say aloud, “until He Comes”. 1 Corinthians 11:26.
GRACE
AMEN
CONCLUSION
Our prayer is that each person who reads this study might enter into "the grace of the Lord Jesus" increasingly and that
the beatitudes of this book will be yours in full measure as you travel the "Glory Road." - Amen
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